This impressive Jugendstil flower bowl was designed by the renowned artist Marie Kirschner between 1903 and 1904 and executed by Johann Loetz Witwe. The bowl is made of Candia glass (colorless glass) and was optically blown, a glassblowing technique that creates a subtle play of light and shadow on the transparent surface. With a generous height of 20 cm and a diameter of no less than 30 cm, this bowl ranks among the largest objects designed by Kirschner.
Four elegantly shaped handles are hot-applied to the rim, not only serving a functional purpose but also contributing to the sculptural character of the piece. Notably, the interior features a central raised area, which is also clearly visible in the original design drawing. This elevation was intended to support floral arrangements, keeping them from slipping out of place — turning the bowl into a functional work of art.
The glass is finished in the spectacular Glatt Iris décor, resulting in a fascinating magical purple iridescence. Depending on the light, the color subtly shifts from gold and violet to deep purple. In direct sunlight, the bowl reveals a shimmering brilliance that is nearly impossible to capture in photographs. This is a hallmark of Loetz’s mastery in iridescent glass techniques.
The bowl is documented in the literature under production number 1090/83, specifically designed on commission by Marie Kirschner.
About Marie Kirschner
Marie Louisa Kirschner (1852–1931), born in Prague, was a Czech-German painter, designer, and glass artist. Coming from a wealthy family, she developed her artistic talents in cities such as Vienna, Munich, and Paris. She later settled in Berlin, where she and her sister Lola (the well-known writer Ossip Schubin) hosted a cultural salon frequented by artists, writers, and musicians.
At the beginning of the 20th century, Kirschner began collaborating with Johann Loetz Witwe. Initially working as a painter of designs, she quickly became a significant designer for the glassworks. Between approximately 1900 and 1913, she contributed 277 designs to Loetz, playing a vital role in shaping the artistic direction of the company. Kirschner’s style is marked by timeless elegance, refined forms, and a well-balanced composition—focusing more on harmony and restraint than on extravagant organic shapes. Her creations often feature softly colored transparent glass with either a matte or vividly iridescent finish.
This exceptional bowl is a striking example of her pursuit of aesthetic simplicity combined with technical innovation and stands as an important collectible within the history of Jugendstil glass art.
Price: € 4250,-
Interested in this item? – Please click here to send us a message using the contact form.
