Exbor – Oldřich Lipa (Lipský)
DUO of Sculptural Czech Glass Vases · Czechoslovakia, 1960s–1970s
Cut-and-Polished Hot-Shaped Art Glass in Amber-Yellow & Orange-Red
A dynamic pair of mid-century Bohemian glass vases by master designer Oldřich Lipa (Lipský), produced by the acclaimed Exbor studio, part of the Železný Brod glassworks. These two colour-saturated sculptural vases are outstanding examples of Czechoslovakia’s Cold War–era glass artistry—each hand-cut from thick solid glass, reflecting the technical bravura and sensual geometry for which Exbor became world-famous.
Design & Optical Play
Both vases share Lipa’s signature language:
• A rectangular vertical silhouette with deeply sculpted vertical waves—creating a tactile surface that seems to breathe with light
• Precision-cut concave and convex forms that refract light into molten gradients
• Exceptional clarity and tonal depth—one in a fiery amber-orange with red inner glow, the other in honey-yellow and clear crystal, almost mimicking the effect of citrine or topaz
These are not merely vessels but optical sculptures—changing mood and structure with each shift in lighting and angle. Their weight and thickness contribute to an almost architectural quality, like glowing totems of modernist rhythm and industrial-era craftsmanship.
Details
• Designer: Oldřich Lipa (Lipský)
• Manufacturer: Exbor, Železný Brod, Czechoslovakia
• Date: circa 1960s–1970s
• Material: Hot-shaped, cut and cold-polished solid glass
• Colours:
– Vase 1: Transparent yellow with amber highlights (height: approx. 22 cm)
– Vase 2: Orange-red glass with deeper ruby reflections (height: approx. 16 cm)
• Weight: Approx. 0.5 kg (smaller vase)
• Markings: Base acid-stamp (Exbor), faint or partially preserved
• Condition:
– Larger yellow vase: Tiny “mosquito bite” chip on one corner (barely visible, does not detract) See close-up photo.
– Smaller red/orange vase: Excellent vintage condition
About the Designer
Oldřich Lipa (Lipský) was among the most innovative designers working within the Czechoslovak glass avant-garde. Active during Exbor’s golden age (1960s–70s), his works have become icons of cut-glass modernism—exhibited across Europe and now highly coveted by collectors for their bold optical structure and uncompromising execution.
About the Manufacturer
Exbor was established in 1953 as a division of Železný Brod, focusing on hlazené plastiky (polished solid glass sculptures). During the 1960s–70s, it emerged as one of the leading centres for artistic glass in Europe, rivaling Scandinavian design houses in both innovation and finish.
Why This Duo?
• Colour Chemistry: The pairing of warm amber-yellow with intense orange-red creates a glowing chromatic dialogue—ideal for collectors who appreciate tonal variation and material experimentation
• Architectural Impact: Whether as stand-alone objects or part of a curated console, these vases radiate strength and subtlety—sculpture masquerading as decor
• Provenance & Prestige: Authenticated Exbor works by a named designer, from the studio’s most inventive period
GENERAL INFORMATION
Questions welcome—please don’t hesitate to get in touch for further images or combined shipping options.
International buyers are welcome. For deliveries outside the EU, please inquire about shipping rates. Any import taxes or duties are the buyer’s responsibility.
Every piece is carefully photographed and described. These are vintage items and may show slight signs of age or handling; any notable flaws are clearly mentioned.
Private sale under German law: no returns, refunds, or warranties. Buyer information is used solely to process the transaction and shipment.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsRed, Multi Color, Orange, Yellow, TransparentMaterialGlassNumber of items2StyleVintageHeight22 cmWidth5 cmDepth5 cm