Italian Brushed Metal and Glass Vase, 1980s

Italy, 1980s. Italian postmodernism of the decade liked to subvert convention, pairing industrial materials with a playful geometry. This vase is a radical expression of it. The structure, in brushed metal, breaks into several interlocking planes, revealing clear glass inserts in square and rectangular window-like shapes. Seen from the front, the whole composes a cross-shaped, almost architectural silhouette. The open top allows a few stems to be slipped in. Good overall condition: the brushed metal keeps its satin finish, the glass inserts are intact, free of cracks. At 18 cm long by 5.5 cm wide and 18.5 cm high, this compact vase sits on a console or shelf. A sculptural, architectural object with resolutely postmodern design.