Iridescent Kralik Cobalt Blue Glass Vase in Fish-scales Décor c.1900

Sumptuously iridescent Kralik Secessionist glass vase in the “Fish-Scales” décor c1900. Of shouldered ovoid-form with dimpled sides and cylindrical neck. Scales décor of wavy threads drawn to points, spiralling down the vase. Petrol iridescent finish creating a gorgeous rainbow of colours across the vase. Cobalt blue ground. Ground pontil mark to base. The vase is 16.5 cm in height and 14.5 cm maximum diameter. Kralik Glassworks gets its name from Wilhelm Ritter von Kralik who inherited the glassworks in 1841 from his uncle (Jan Meyr) who was an award winning glassmaker in his own right. On Wilhelm’s death the company was divided between his sons. Karl Kralik retained the Meyr name, gaining recognition for its quality of design and production whilst Heinrich and Johann Kralik formed the company ‘Wilhelm Kralik Sohn’ – producing the glass we generally associate with Kralik. The two companies were united by Heinrich c1922 as ‘Wilhelm Kralik Sohne’ – continuing to produce glass in the Art Deco style. The company closed its doors forever during Wwii yet has managed to preserve a legacy despite an almost complete lack of signed pieces.