Hadeland Norway, 1960s Sandblasted Design, Man Playing Violin on a Tall Glass Vase, Traditional Costume

This heavy-bottomed art glass vase has a design on the front showing a bearded man, wearing a traditional Norwegian folk costume, playing a violin. Manufactured in Norway by Hadeland, a series of sandblasted layers is used to create the decoration. The vase is heavy, weighing 5.25 pounds. It measures 9.75 inches tall, 4.5 inches wide, and 3 inches deep. This is a charming piece, sure to bring a smile to the face of the recipient.

This vase is marked with a single X, which was Hadelands mark for second quality products. They were sold in the factory outlet at reduced price; usually because of a minor imperfection in the glass or the decoration. It is tough to spot the flaw without a perfect vase to compare with, but I'd guess it was the bubble under the button on his shirt. (Very particular!)

Hadeland Glassworks, founded in 1762, is the oldest industrial company in Norway that can claim continuous operation since its foundation. In later years, however, most of the production is done abroad. The glass works today represents an industry undergoing constant development, with an increased focus on cost-effective production, but also significant operations linked to the Visitor Centre. There is still a development section at the site and this, together with the option for visiting artists to make their own glasswork, makes a thriving environment for innovative ideas. In May 2012, King Harald marked the 250th anniversary of Hadeland Glassworks.