Modern Vase

8 Aug, 2004 in art pottery by admin

Modern Vase

Find A Waterford Crystal Vase That Fits Your Décor

Whether you’re giving a gift or selecting your personal stemware, nothing compares with Waterford Crystal. There are plenty of imitations, but only Waterford Crystal can claim both a rich history and modern day, superb craftsmanship.

Waterford Crystal dates back to 1782 when two brothers, George and William Penrose, founded a company to manufacture crystal in the seafaring town of Waterford, Ireland. With hard work and a gift for glass, the company grew to employ up to 70 people. The fruit of their labor was a sparkling crystal that became known as the best in its class in Ireland or England.

With some waxing and waning in the business, the Waterford Crystal company was revived in 1947, just after the Second World War. This smaller glass factory was established just over 11 miles from the original factory. The location may have changed, but the company’s commitment to quality remains strong today.

Today, when it’s time for you to set up housekeeping, look for the perfect Waterford Crystal to reflect your style and taste. Vases range from the classic to the contemporary, with plenty of variations on the themes in between.

If your tastes run to the classics, you must consider the Lismore 8-inch footed bowl or the 10-inch diamond-shaped vase. Lismore is Waterford’s most recognized and most popular pattern. It is named for Lismore Castle, once the Irish home of Sir Walter Raleigh. It was designed more than 50 years ago by Mirek Havel, a Czech immigrant who eventually became Waterford’s chief designer. You’ll recognize Lismore when you see its diamonds and wedge cuts in the crystal. The bowl, 8 inches wide by 5 inches high, can find a home on a coffee or accent table, holding flowers, candy or potpourri. The vase, 3 ¾ inches wide by 10 inches high, can stand alone or full of flowers.

Another vase with fascinating lines is the 10-inch Arrington vase trimmed in 14K gold. These vases, signed by Waterford design director Jim O’Leary, feature deep diagonal lines that create the look of waves cresting on the body of the vase. The top flares and the rim is encircled in gold. There is also a smaller, footed version of the same vase. The 8-inch model has the same gold rim.

For something a tad less traditional, consider the 10-inch Garland vase – so named for the image of a vine crawling up an ancient column carved onto the vase. It is smaller at the base and flares dramatically at the top, measuring 7 ¼ inches wide and 10 inches high. It is a perfect size for a bouquet of flowers or to show off a collection of materials from nature, like sea glass or sea shells.

If these vases seem a bit too buttoned-down for your taste, but you still want something elegant from Waterford, consider the 13-inch Crystal Serengeti vase that is part of Waterford’s Evolution line.

This exotic piece of crystal shines in shades of amber, brown and green – colors you might find in an African sunset. It can certainly be used in a contemporary décor and would also be a bright spot in an otherwise traditional setting. Another piece in the Evolution collection is the 12-inch Espresso Swirl vase. This vase takes its inspiration from the oceans, with swirls of blue and rich brown. The hand-blown vase can stand alone, or can be paired with others in the collection.

For a completely different look, consider the 12-inch by 5-inch Black Vase that is part of Waterford’s John Rocha collection. The high-gloss black surface is broken up by a band of sparkling cuts at the top. The result is a dramatic and elegant piece of crystal. The vase certainly reflects the designer. Rocha was born in Hong Kong and later studied fashion design in London. He came to Ireland in search of Irish linen and has lived in Dublin ever since.

As you can see, you can enjoy Waterford Crystal in your home no matter what your décor. If you aren’t exactly sure what your style is, then let your crystal decide for you. Pick out the crystal that appeals to you most – and then build your style around that decision.

No matter what style of crystal you select, be sure to care for it as directed. Do not pour iced liquids or very hot liquids into crystal as it can crack or break. After use, crystal should be hand-washed in warm, soapy water. Be sure to rinse it well and dry it with a lint-free cloth. Avoid putting your crystal in the dishwasher as that can make it turn dull or damage the surface. When drying or storing your crystal, never store it upside down as the rim is the most fragile part. With care, your crystal will serve you long and well.

About the Author

Barbara Delp is a freelance writer who writes about furniture and home décor such as a Waterford crystal vase.

i have a modern painting i think circa 1970s by a artist named barret,it measures 40"x40" ,and signed in 3'

tall letters barret in lower left,i found one of the artist paintings online at the ro gallery in new york,an abstract for 4,500 dollors,mine is a vase with flowers,they (the ro gallary) wouldnt send me any infomation on the artist,does anyone know anything about this artist?the first name,still alive?ect?
im sorry the name is spelled with two t,s berrett

If you found the artist on-line at the Ro Gallery, do you not have a first name ?

There are many "Barretts" this could be, possible Deborah Barrett, although 1970s would be too early for her I think.

Any more clues please ?

Murano Glass, Akira Hara, F.lli Pagnin - Modern Vase