Art Deco Acid Etched Smoked Citrine Recess Molded Vase Signed by Daum Nancy
Art Deco Acid Etched Smoked Citrine Recess Molded Vase Signed by Daum Nancy
This elegant and sophisticated Art Deco vase/ vessel was realized in Nancy, France by the esteemed studio of Daum- arguably the most prestigious and highly collected atelier of the period circa 1930. The piece features a round base that dramatically flares into a protuberant base subtly tapering to a gently indented neck before flaring out once more to a rounded mouth. This piece is full of subtle and idiosyncratic geometries and gentle curves. Realized in a beautiful translucent smoked citrine glass (a rare and unusual color), the piece features rectangular forms evenly impressed into the surface of the glass (achieved through a recessed molding technique) that display a heavily textured surface and plain centers. With its beautiful glass quality by one of the period's greatest makers, this piece is sure to delight discerning collectors of the period as well as those with a penchant for exquisite objects. It is signed "Daum Nancy" and is in excellent condition.
France, circa 1930
Dimensions:
Height: 8 in (20.32 cm) x Diameter: 5 in (12.7 cm)
Creator: Daum (Artist)
Style: Art Deco (Of the Period)
Materials and Techniques: Glass
Place of Origin: France
Period: 1930-1939
Date of Manufacture: circa 1930
Condition: Excellent
Reference Number: LU793430600792
DAUM
Founded in 1878 by industrialist Jean Daum, the Daum crystal studio has grown from a modest glassworks in Nancy, France, to an internationally acclaimed house of luxury crystal art. Jean's sons, Auguste and Antonin, took over the family business and significantly propelled it into the Art Nouveau movement's limelight, particularly during the Universal Exhibition of 1900 where Daum received the prestigious Grand Prix medal.
Under their leadership, Daum crystal became renowned for its intricate designs combining acid etching, carving, and enameling. The studio's signature involved integrating applied glass elements that mirrored natural forms, which became a hallmark of Daum's pieces. The brothers were instrumental in reinvigorating the ancient technique of pâte de verre, a method where glass paste is molded and then kiln-fired, a process dating back to ancient Egypt.
The onset of World War I temporarily halted production, but by 1917, the factory resumed operations under a new name, "Societe Anonyme des Verreries Schneider," continuing to favor Art Nouveau styles while starting to introduce Art Deco elements. Post-World War I, Paul Daum, the next generation, began steering designs towards the Art Deco aesthetic, emphasizing linear and geometric shapes which marked a significant shift from the naturalistic forms of earlier periods.
In the years following, Daum collaborated with numerous artists, enhancing its offerings with innovative designs and techniques. Despite the economic challenges posed by the 1929 Wall Street crash, Daum managed to sustain production by adapting designs to simpler forms and fewer colors, catering to a changing market. The interwar and post-WWII periods saw a continued evolution in style, with the company increasingly focusing on the clarity and form of glass, aligning with contemporary trends.
By the late 20th century, Daum had cemented its reputation in the luxury goods market, known for both traditional craftsmanship and avant-garde artistry. It continued to produce high-end crystal sculptures and functional items using both time-honored and modern glass-making techniques. Today, Daum pieces, whether from the early 20th century or contemporary lines, remain coveted by collectors and art enthusiasts worldwide, celebrated for their quality and artistic integrity.
