ABX Modernism Vase, white glass, Poland, 1970s

The vase made of crumpled glass from HSG Tarnowiec, produced in Poland in the 1970s, is an example of modernist glass craftsmanship from that period. The upper, bulbous part of the vessel is made of cool, milky white glass with a translucent character, smoothly transitioning to a transparent, glossy base. The sculptural silhouette of the vase stands out with organic, irregular protrusions and a distinct vertical accent – a narrow neck flares into a wide 'arm', creating a dynamic form. The finish is smooth, with a high gloss, and the contrast between the matte white and the transparent base emphasizes a minimalist yet expressive aesthetic. No visible signs of use, damage or intervention have been identified – the item is preserved in very good, original condition. The form of this vase tells the story of the era when Polish glassmaking explored new means of expression, experimenting with the plasticity of material and play of light. The crumpled, almost fluid line of glass gives the impression of a fragment of ice sculpture frozen in motion – sometimes raw, sometimes gentle, always intriguing. The milky white, translucent top merges with the crystalline base as if recreating the moment of the form's birth in the fire of the furnace, where matter becomes both malleable and unpredictable. This is an object that carries a tale of the courage of designers from the 1970s, ready to combine the simplicity of colour with a sophisticated, organic body. The vase can be combined with other examples of vintage Polish glass, creating a collection of items with varied textures and hues, or placed solo on a dark wood dresser, where its translucent form gains additional depth. It also works well surrounded by minimalist sculptures, simple metal accents, or against a raw concrete wall. It's worth pairing it with a single branch or leaving it empty to emphasize the sculptural silhouette and highlight the play of light on the surface.