Bolero Cobalt Blue Flute Glasses
Decorative art, glassware • Design attributed to Mikasa (Bolero pattern), likely produced in Japan or Germany
Style & Movement
Modernist / Mid-Century Modern revival
Medium & Technique
Hand-blown cobalt and clear lead crystal featuring a suspended controlled air bubble (bullicante) technique in the base
Creation Period
Late 20th century (circa 1980-1999)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8.5 to 9 inches in height; cylindrical vertical format
Subject Description
Functional beverage set featuring a tall, tapered cobalt blue bowl fused to a heavy, clear pedestal base. The clear base contains a singular, perfectly centered teardrop air bubble, a hallmark of the 'Bolero' design
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible shelf wear and minor surface scratching consistent with age and domestic use
Estimated Market Value
$60.00 - $120.00 USD for a set of four
Auction Estimate
$40.00 - $80.00 USD
Provenance History
Mass-produced high-end retail glassware; likely original private purchase from a department store (e.g., Macy's or Bloomingdale's)
Art Historical Significance
Representative of late 20th-century consumer glass design that utilized traditional Italian Murano techniques (like the bullicante bubble) for a mass-market luxury audience
Notable Features
Characteristic 'controlled bubble' in the weighted base; vibrant cobalt blue cased glass color transition to clear stem
Condition Issues
Minor surface abrasions on the exterior; slight mineral clouding/film potentially from dishwasher use; no visible chips or cracks in the primary image
Conservation Recommendations
Hand wash only with mild detergent; avoid abrasive sponges; store with space between glasses to prevents rim chipping