Vintage Swung Glass Vase Value Guide
- Period
- 1960-1970
- Origin
- United States
- Materials
- Glass
- Category
- Swung glass
Vintage Swung Glass Vases are iconic mid-century American collectibles known for their dramatic height and organic, fluid silhouettes. Each piece is unique because it was manually stretched and swung while the glass was still molten, resulting in a sculptural form that captures the experimental spirit of the 1960s and 1970s.
What affects the value of Vintage Swung Glass Vase?
- Height and scale, as taller examples that pushed the limits of the swinging technique often command higher prices.
- The complexity and symmetry of the multi-petal rim, with undamaged 'fingers' being essential for top value.
- Clarity and condition of the glass, specifically the absence of 'sick glass' cloudiness or base chips.
- Vibrancy of the color, though clear glass examples remain steady staples within the $40-$60 price range.
How to Identify Vintage Swung Glass Vase?
- Look for a distinct hexagonal base which provides the structural foundation for the tall, ribbed body.
- Examine the rim for a multi-petal or 'finger' style finish created during the manual stretching process.
- Check for the absence of mold seams on the upper portion, as the swinging technique erases factory lines in the stretched glass.
- Verify the height and organic asymmetry, as no two authentic swung vases are perfectly identical in their vertical extension.
History of Vintage Swung Glass Vase
Swung vases gained popularity in the mid-20th century, particularly from the 1960s to the 1970s. This distinctive style is created by taking a still-molten glass vase and stretching it manually, often by swinging it, to achieve exaggerated heights and fluid, organic forms. The technique allows for unique, individual variations in each piece, making them highly collectible and sought after for their sculptural qualities.
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