Kosta Lindstrand 1974 Swedish Vase with Engraved Child Feeding the Birds - Unsigned, Perfect Gift

A charming little child, warm in a coat and beanie, is leaning down to feed the birds on this Swedish art glass vase from Kosta. The vase is a perfect size for display, 6 inches tall, and weighing more than 2 pounds. I love the heft of this piece - the freeform, hand blown glass feels solid and looks substantial.

The artist, Vicke Lindstrand (1904-1983) was born in Goteborg, Sweden, and started his career with Orrefors in 1928, where he remained until 1940. The tales of his departure vary, but it is known that he was under an agreement not to work in glass for a decade. Between 1943 and 1950 he became creative leader at Uppsala Ekeby, where he designed many different stoneware objects ranging from pots to figural sculptures. In 1950 he joined Kosta Glasbruk as an artistic director. He was the dominant designer until his retirement in 1973, lending his name to many now classic designs. As a glass designer, textile and ceramic designer, and painter, he is considered a pioneer of Swedish art. (He is also my favorite Swedish artist, and the one whose work I collect most.)