Landscape Cameo Glass Vase
Decorative art, double-gourd vase • Attributed to Daum Nancy or Émile Gallé School
Style & Movement
Art Nouveau (École de Nancy)
Medium & Technique
Cameo glass, acid-etched and wheel-carved layering; frosted opalescent glass with green and brown vitreous overlays
Creation Period
Late 19th to early 20th century (c. 1890-1925)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 15-20 cm in height; double-gourd (bottle) form
Subject Description
A naturalistic forest landscape featuring silhouettes of deciduous trees against a misty, atmospheric background. The composition employs varying depths of etching to create a sense of perspective and light through the glass layers.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good; the surface appears to maintain its original frosted finish with clear definition in the etching.
Estimated Market Value
$1,200 - $3,500 USD
Auction Estimate
$1,000 - $2,500 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely originated from a French glass foundry during the height of the Art Nouveau movement and passed through private collections.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the height of glass innovation in Nancy, France, where artisans combined industrial chemistry with fine art to create 'talking glass' that captured the poetic qualities of nature.
Notable Features
The internal yellow-green tinting at the rim transition and the relief texture of the tree branches suggest high-quality acid-work typical of the Nancy school.
Condition Issues
Possible minor shelf wear on the base; visible lime or mineral deposits inside the neck; light surface scratches typical of handled glass.
Conservation Recommendations
Gentle cleaning with distilled water and mild non-ionic detergent; avoid abrasive cleaners or mechanical polishing; display in stable temperature conditions away from direct heat sources.