Titania glass – Innovation in Glass Art – 1905
This impressive Titania Genre 2534 Jugendstil vase, crafted by the renowned Johann Loetz Witwe, is a striking example of the technical and artistic excellence the glassworks achieved at the beginning of the 20th century. With a generous height of 19 cm and an elegant globular body, the vase not only reflects the aesthetics of Jugendstil but also embodies the innovative design approach that made Loetz famous.
The vase is executed in the sought-after Titania genre, known for its ethereal metallic tones in opal blue, green, and grey. What makes this example particularly special is the technique of applying a clear layer of glass over the colored Titania base. This results in a remarkable sense of depth and a mesmerizing play of light, giving the vase an almost magical appearance. Depending on the angle and lighting, the color tones shift subtly, showcasing Loetz’s mastery of color and material composition.
The design of this vase is documented in the literature under production number Series II 3639, a model introduced in 1906. The shape was specifically chosen to showcase decorative techniques to their fullest potential.
Silver overlay
The refined silver overlay that adorns the vase features a lush floral decoration which, with its flowing lines and natural motifs, aligns perfectly with the aesthetics of the Art Nouveau style. The silver ornamentation is expertly applied around the bulbous body, enhancing the organic character of the piece. The upper rim is also finished with elegant silver, emphasizing the graceful design.
The silver currently shows a natural patina, adding to the piece’s authentic appearance. It can be polished if desired, but this choice is left to the discretion of the new owner.
Vienna Secession
The Titania series was highly favored by leading designers of the Vienna Secession, including Leopold Bauer, Josef Hoffmann, and Franz Hofstätter. Their collaborations with Loetz underscore the artistic cross-pollination between glass art and architecture that defined this progressive period.
This vase stands as a brilliant example of Loetz’s ambition to merge natural inspiration, technical innovation, and artistic refinement into a unified work of art.
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