Friedrich Kristall “Bubble” Pop Art Vase Duo – Blue Cased Glass, Germany, 1970s
A striking curated pair of West German art glass vases by Friedrich Kristall, produced during the height of 1970s European Pop Art and Space Age design. Executed in heavy mouth-blown cased glass with vivid cobalt and turquoise blue tones layered over opaque white glass, these two complementary forms perfectly capture the playful optimism and sculptural experimentation of the era.
Presented together, the duo creates a dynamic dialogue between geometry and curvature. One vase features a compact square bottle form, while the second adopts a softer circular silhouette. Both are united by their distinctive raised "bubble" relief decoration—a rhythmic arrangement of lens-like domes that transforms each vessel into a tactile sculptural object.
Particularly captivating is the way the blue overlay shifts from luminous turquoise to deep sapphire, creating swirling optical effects within the glass. Under changing light conditions, the surfaces appear almost liquid, while the protruding bubble motifs generate additional highlights and shadows that enhance their three-dimensional character.
The combination of the square and circular forms gives this ensemble a visual balance that is difficult to achieve with a single piece. Together they embody the futuristic aesthetic language of the 1970s, recalling both Pop Art graphics and Space Age industrial design.
Design & Aesthetic
The Bubble series belongs to the most recognizable expressions of German decorative glass from the period, combining:
• Pop Art playfulness
• Space Age futurism
• Op Art-inspired optical effects
• Sculptural relief decoration
• Strong geometric silhouettes
The contrast between the angular square vase and the rounded circular example creates a particularly successful composition, making the pair ideal for collectors and interior designers alike.
Details
Manufacturer: Friedrich Kristall, Germany
Period: 1970s
Material: Mouth-blown cased glass
Colours: Sapphire blue, turquoise blue, white overlay
Style: Pop Art / Space Age / Modernist / Op Art
Square Vase:
Height: 16.5 cm
Width: 12 cm
Depth: 9 cm
Weight: Approx. 1205 g
Round Vase:
Height: 18.5 cm
Width: 15 cm
Depth: 7 cm
Condition
Both vases are in excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs observed. Minor traces of age and light interior wear consistent with careful vintage use.
Collector's Note
While individual Friedrich Kristall Bubble vases are increasingly sought after, finding complementary examples in matching colourways and different forms is becoming increasingly difficult. The combination of square and circular silhouettes creates a highly decorative ensemble that feels both playful and sophisticated.
Whether displayed together on a sideboard, shelf, or illuminated cabinet, these vases function as sculptural design objects even when empty. Their saturated blue colour and distinctive relief decoration make them standout examples of German 1970s art glass.
General Information
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International buyers: import duties or taxes, if applicable, are the buyer’s responsibility.
All items are photographed and described with care. Vintage pieces may show minimal traces of age; any significant flaws will be clearly mentioned.
Specifications
ConditionVery goodColorsTurquoise, WhiteMaterialCrystal, GlassNumber of items2Height16 cmWidth12 cmDepth9 cm