Mid-Century Large Italian Crystal Vase, 1970s

This exceptional Italian lead crystal vase features a cylindrical shape with a built-in base, characterized by its linear, simple, and well-proportioned design. Crafted from the highest quality, thick lead crystal, the vase allows for deeper than-normal grinding, enhancing light reflection to a brilliant degree. The grinding geometry is specially designed and executed in various patterns, including lattice, drop, clear-cut, and diamond. Created between 1970 and 1974 in a craft workshop in Colle di Val D'Elsa (Siena, Italy), the vase's high refractive index is a testament to the master artisans of this Tuscan town. They employed ancient and complex glassmaking techniques in crystal processing. After being shaped and slowly cooled, the vase underwent cutting and grinding using an emery wheel continuously fed by a jet of abrasive sand and water. It was then re-polished with a very fine-grained sandstone wheel, followed by a cork bark wheel wet with a mixture of water and pumice. The final polishing stage utilized a felt wheel wet with a mixture of water, iron oxide, and cerium oxide. Crystal craftsmanship began in the medieval Tuscan village of Colle di Val D'Elsa around 1300, thanks to the abundance of natural resources: sand, water, and timber. These elements were crucial in establishing the first glassmaking center. with the advent of machinery in the 19th century, the glass industry experienced significant growth. In 1963, after substantial investments and much experimentation, Colle di Val D'Elsa produced a glass containing over 24 percent lead oxide. This product could compete in brilliance and clarity with those from England, France, and Belgium, where lead glassmaking traditions were well established.
Colle di Val D'Elsa's contributions are impressive, producing 95 percent of Italy's crystal and 15 percent of the world's crystal. The village is often referred to as the "Bohemia of Italy." The artisans, masters of their craft, have managed to showcase the great beauty of this vase through its brightness, transparency, and brilliance, making it a unique and precious work of art.
The vase is in good condition. Measurements: diameter 20 cm, height 28 cm.