Bohemian Cobalt Blue Glass Vase with Gold Decoration, c. 1930

There are vases, and then there are vases that make you stop mid-sentence and just stare. This is the second kind. This compact Bohemian cobalt blue glass vase from around 1930 is the sort of object that commands a room despite being barely 9 centimetres tall — which is frankly impressive behaviour for something that fits in the palm of your hand.

The deep, electric cobalt blue glass is hand-decorated with an intricate gold design: a repeating pattern of stylised dragonfly or bow motifs connected by flowing curved lines, framed by bold gold bands at the rim and base. The gold has that slightly raised, hand-applied quality that you simply cannot fake — and that modern reproductions never quite manage to get right.

The base is faceted in a classic Bohemian style, and the whole thing glows like a tiny jewel when light hits it. On a windowsill, a mantelpiece, or a display shelf, this little vase punches well above its weight class.

• Bohemian hand-blown cobalt blue glass, c. 1930
• Hand-applied gold decoration: stylised motifs with flowing lines
• Gold banding at rim and base
• Faceted base in classic Bohemian style
• Dimensions: 9 x 7 cm
• Weight: 117 g
• Condition: excellent vintage condition

WARNING: Placing this vase anywhere in your home will immediately become the thing every guest picks up, turns over, and says "oh, this is lovely" about. Maison de L'oro accepts no responsibility for the subsequent Bohemian glass collecting habit this may inspire.