Viking Glass Swung Vase Value Guide

The Viking Glass Swung Vase is a quintessential Mid-Century Modern collectible, prized for its dramatic height and organic, hand-blown silhouette. Produced in the United States during the 1960s, these amber-colored vessels represent a peak in American glass artistry where gravity and heat were used to create one-of-a-kind elongated forms.

What affects the value of Viking Glass Swung Vase?

• Height is a primary driver of value, with taller examples generally commanding prices closer to the $200 range.
• The presence of original foil labels or etched signatures significantly increases the item's market desirability.
• Condition is critical; the absence of 'flea bites' on the delicate flared rim and clarity of the glass without 'sick' cloudiness preserves value.
• The intensity and rarity of the amber hue, specifically its transparency and lack of internal air bubbles, affects the final appraisal.

How to Identify Viking Glass Swung Vase?

• Look for the characteristic 'swung' rim which is flared and often asymmetrical due to the reheating and stretching process.
• Examine the base for a polished pontil mark or a specific molded foot consistent with Viking Glass production patterns.
• Verify the amber color density, which should be vibrant and consistent throughout the thick glass walls of the vessel.
• Check for the impressive vertical elongation and smooth, tool-mark-free finish typical of the 1960s Viking manufacturing technique.

History of Viking Glass Swung Vase

Swung vases gained popularity during the Mid-Century Modern era, particularly from the 1950s to the 1970s. American glass manufacturers like Viking Glass, LE Smith, and Fenton were prominent producers. The 'swung' technique involved reheating the rim of a vase and allowing gravity to stretch the glass upwards, creating unique, elongated, and often asymmetrical forms. These vases were a staple of modern interior design, reflecting the era's appreciation for organic shapes and vibrant colors.