The artwork “Vase” by Louis Comfort Tiffany, dated to 1914, is an exemplary piece of the Art Nouveau movement, specifically within its Modern direction. As part of the Tiffany glass series, this piece is not only a vessel but also a quintessence of design. Its inclusion as a utensil underscores its functionality amidst its aesthetic appeal.
The artwork showcases a robust form, characterized by a substantial, rounded base that gracefully narrows as it ascends to a more constricted neck and flared opening. The dual handles arch from the shoulder to the neck, melding seamlessly with the vase’s contours. The surface texture is rich and complex, evoking the natural patinas found on aged metal, with verdant hues of green and subtle hints of other earth tones that suggest a natural process of oxidization.
The glaze is applied in a manner that accentuates the object’s inherent undulations, highlighting the tactile quality of the vase and its organic inspiration, a hallmark of the Art Nouveau movement which sought to harmonize with the natural world. The interplay of light and shadow on the vase’s surface emphasize its three-dimensional form, inviting the viewer to consider the object from multiple perspectives. As a design element, the vase demonstrates Louis Comfort Tiffany’s mastery in manipulating glass to achieve both visual and tactile allure, making it a revered piece of functional art.
