Objects of the Day: A Pair of Art Nouveau Vases

The Art Nouveau period (approximately 1890-1905) was defined by fluid shapes, free-flowing curves and a reliance on stylized natural themes. The style of the “new art” was undulating with life. A popular medium during the art nouveau, art glass reached a stylistic apex often featuring bright colors set against the contrast of clear and frosted glass.


This pair of French art-glass vases defines the Art Nouveau style. Rising to a gentle, tapered trumpet from the bulbous base which was characteristic of the style, these vases speak of the delicacy of natural forms which so inspired artists of the day.

Garnet-colored, hand-painted designs with roots in the Rococo, effortlessly reinforce the shape of the vase. They’re accentuated by gold paint which shimmers against the frosted glass. Clear glass adds an extra layer of dimension along the edges of the vases. Thin and delicate, these vases stand at fifteen inches in height. They seem to be untouched by time and continue to represent their origins with pride.