Loetz Conch Shell Vase Candia Papillon ca. 1900

Already at the end of the 19th century, the naturalistically depicted shell and snail vases, executed at the highest level of craftsmanship, were among the most popular and successful glass objects of the Johann Loetz Witwe manufactory. This well-documented series with zoomorphic themes can be traced back as early as 1897. Since the modeled shell vases – or “snail shells” as they were also called – were high-quality fashion objects, the glassworks gave free rein to its creativity and diversity.

Thus, not only different shapes and sizes exist, but also specimens with plastic coral branches and leaf overlays. Depending on the production series, the popular vases were also made in different colors and decorations. They all have in common that they form a bridge between expiring trends of the 19th century and innovative impulses of the upcoming 20th century within the development of Art Nouveau glass.

The extravagant “Candia Papillon” decoration adds a special luminosity to the snail shape of this rare object. The iridescent quality of the decoration not only encompasses the exterior of the intricately applied silver crumbled dots, but extends into the interior of the glass shell case. A characteristic of this scroll vase is the iridescent colors on a “candia” yellow ground, which offer a new aesthetic experience full of brilliance and luminosity from every angle.

However, the decor is not the sole highlight of this artistic vase. Its shape alone is capable of outshining many another. The freehand applied and excellently crafted coral branches, for example, evoke associations with the water of crashing ocean waves. Whether as a single piece or part of a series, this vase will find its rightful place in any glass collection.