Vintage Oversized Amber Glass Brandy Snifter Floor Vase with Twisted Stem
Unbranded (Attributed to Empoli or Kanawha) · Art & Decor > Vases & Glassware
Era / Decade
1960s-1970s (Mid-Century Modern). Clues include the amber/honey color palette, decorative twisted stem, and large-scale 'statement piece' proportions typical of Italian and American art glass of this period.
Material
Hand-blown colored glass. Features a darker 'smoke' or deep amber twist in the stem and a translucent honey-amber bowl.
Condition
Excellent. The glass appears clear with no visible clouding (sickness), major chips, or deep scratches. The rim looks smooth, though often these have small factory irregularities known as 'flea bites'.
Demand Level
Strong. Warm-toned vintage glass and 'Giant' snifters are currently high-demand items for interior decorators and MCM collectors.
Resale Value
Estimated Resale Value
$45.00 - $125.00 (Low: $45 on FB Marketplace; Mid: $75 on eBay; High: $125+ in a curated MCM vintage shop)
Estimated Retail Value
$65.00 - $85.00 (Adjusted for modern artisanal equivalent)
Comparable Sales
Similar Empoli-style oversized snifters in amber typically sell for $60-$90 on eBay plus shipping. Rare colors like cobalt or olive can reach $150, but amber remains a steady seller.
Description
Stunning Mid-Century Modern oversized brandy snifter vase in a rich amber glass. This decorative floor or tabletop piece features a dramatic bulbous bowl with subtle optic ribbing and a unique barley-twist stem. Standing approximately 12-16 inches tall, it captures light beautifully, making it a perfect statement piece for MCM or bohemian decor styles. Color transitions from a deep mahogany at the base to a golden honey hue at the top.
Key Features
Oversized 'Giant' scale; popular Mid-Century Modern aesthetic; highly desirable amber/warm-tone colorway; unique helical twisted stem; hand-blown quality.
Authenticity Indicators
High confidence. The pontil mark on the bottom (or lack thereof if fire-polished) and the weight of the glass are consistent with 1970s Italian Empoli imports. No modern barcodes or mass-production seams are visible.
Flaws to Note
Look for shelf wear (light scratching) on the bottom of the base. Check the inner rim for tiny chips. Note any air bubbles or 'seeds' which are common in vintage glass but should be mentioned in the listing.
Selling Guide
Where to Sell
Etsy or eBay for the highest price point. Facebook Marketplace for a quick local sale to avoid the high risk of shipping breakage.
Selling Tips
Use keywords like 'MCM', 'Empoli Style', 'Amberina', 'Barley Twist', and 'Floor Snifter'. Photograph it with backlighting to show the translucency of the glass. Use double-boxing and plenty of bubble wrap if shipping, as these are fragile and top-heavy.