Ekenäs J.O. Lake 1960s, Very Large Engraved Crystal Vase, Young Woman with Fan, Sweden, Perfect Gift

This remarkable vase, designed by renowned Swedish glass artist John-Orwar Lake, has a highly-detailed engraving of a mod young woman covering the entire front of the vase - a style I have never seen before. Her big eyes fill her slightly smiling face, and her outfit, including a short-sleeved sweater, a veil, and a fancy fan, add to the mysterious mood of the image. The traditional copper-wheel engraving is masterfully done, likely executed by Gert Claesson, who was a craftsman at Ekenäs Glassworks for many years.

This vase was probably made in the in the late 1960s, while Lake was artistic director at Ekenäs. I bought it from a man who told me that it was part of his mother-in-law's estate. I promised to take good care of it while it was with me, and it has had a prominent place in my display cabinet ever since. However, as my engraved glass collection has grown (and been shared), it has evolved into a more focused study of a small handful of artists. Although I will miss this lovely lady in my display, she deserves to be passed along, not packed away.

This very special vase is 9.5" tall and 6" wide, and it weighs 5 pounds. You can see how it towers over my scale-man, Bob, who is 7" tall. Ekenäs glass mill was founded in 1917. John-Orwar Lake was artistic director at the glass mill from 1953-1976, and he is best known for his speckled, multicolored, hand blown glass. This unusual engraved vase is a real handmade Swedish treasure!