Kosta Bergh-Widholm 1930s Engraved Lead Crystal Decanter with Sailor, No Stopper, Water Spots, Perfect Gift

This charming decanter comes from a series of Elis Bergh's work based on illustrations by Swedish artist and illustrator, Gunnar Widholm. The base is signed “Kosta B-W 46,” where the 46 is an early style number, not a date. It is also marked with a "4" which was probably to match the now-missing stopper.

The decanter is heavy, weighing almost 3 pounds and measuring 3.5" in diameter and 8.5" tall. It has marvelous optic rings on the inside and a hand-cut faceted neck. It was engraved using the traditional copper-wheel method, one that required incredible skill. The piece has water marks throughout its interior, but otherwise, it is in better than expected condition for its age.

Between 1928 and 1950, Elis Bergh was the artistic leader of Kosta glass mill . After 1950 until his death in 1954 he appeared as a consultant to Kosta. He came to Kosta for an architectural assignment in which he was to design an interior at the mill. In 1928 he was called back to draw lighting fixtures, an area in which he considered was an authority. As an artistic director he stood for the graceful yet modern design that characterized Kosta's production during the interwar period.

The price of this decanter reflects its condition.