Faceted Controlled Bubble Glass Bud Vase
Attributed to Murano or Val St. Lambert · Art & Decor > Glassware
Era / Decade
Mid-Century Modern (1960s-1970s)
Material
Heavy lead crystal or art glass with hand-polished facets and a 'bullicante' teardrop interior. High-quality refractive weight.
Condition
Good to Very Good. The exterior facets appear crisp, but there are visible surface scratches and minor flea bites on the edges consistent with age and shelf wear.
Demand Level
Moderate. MCM glass remains popular, though clear glass is currently less 'trendy' than colored jewel tones.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$35.00 - $85.00 ($35 low/damaged, $85 mid-high for pristine examples)
Estimated Retail Value
$150.00 - $250.00 (Vintage boutique pricing)
Comparable Sales
Similar faceted clear glass vases by Val St. Lambert or Murano brands typically sell between $45 and $95 on eBay. Signed pieces reach $150+, while unsigned examples like this one usually settle in the $50 range.
Description
Stunning Mid-Century Modern faceted art glass bud vase. This heavy, geometric paperweight-style piece features a clear hand-cut exterior with numerous facets that catch the light beautifully. The center features a suspended 'controlled bubble' teardrop-shaped reservoir designed to hold a single bloom. The base is flat and polished. Its substantial weight and optical clarity suggest a high-end European glass house origin.
Key Features
Hand-cut facets, MCM aesthetic, controlled bubble technique (bullicante), functional as both a vase and a paperweight, high optical clarity.
Authenticity Indicators
Absence of mold lines indicates hand-polished quality. The weight and refraction are characteristic of high-lead crystal. Confidence: Medium-High (Style-accurate).
Flaws to Note
Small surface scratches, minor flea bite chips on the sharp facet edges, and internal residue/calcination at the bottom of the flower hole that may require cleaning.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy (for vintage lovers), eBay (for collectors), or Chairish (if authenticated as a premium maker like Val St. Lambert).
Selling Tips
Use 'MCM', 'Faceted', 'Controlled Bubble', and 'Heavy Glass' in the title. Photograph against a dark or velvet background to show off the internal bubble and facets. Clean the interior hole with a bottle brush or vinegar to remove mineral deposits.
Notes
Heavy, hole over bubble