Organic Brutalist set of 4 balloon glasses in textured neodymium glass with hand-sculpted base, Italy, 1970s.
A striking set of four handblown balloon glasses, crafted in rare neodymium glass. The design is sculptural and sensuous: a wide, rounded bowl rests atop an organic base — each one pressed and shaped by hand, resulting in subtle variations that evoke natural formations frozen in glass.
Beyond function, these pieces offer a chromatic experience. Infused with neodymium oxide, the glass reacts to light with quiet drama: warm lilac and blush tones under daylight, shifting to cool smoky blues in fluorescent or cold light. A material in constant dialogue with its surroundings.
The textured surface and anatomical base give the glasses a tactile, almost geological presence. Each circular form at the base is meticulously handcrafted, one by one, by skilled artisans. No two bases are exactly alike, making every piece a singular work of art. This subtle variation celebrates the human touch behind the production, enriching the tactile and visual experience with an authentic sense of individuality.
Bold yet balanced, they reflect the radical spirit in design — somewhere between Brutalist solidity and postmodern play.
OBJECT SPECIFICATIONS
PRODUCT: Set of 4 balloon glasses in textured neodymium glass
ORIGIN: Italy
PERIOD: 1970s
MATERIAL: Neodymium glass
COLOR: Lilac shifting to smoky blue depending on light
TEXTURE: Sculpted organic base with textured surface
CONDITION: Exceptional condition — unused
DIMENSIONS: (+–) Diameter top: 6 cm; Diameter max: 9.5 cm; Height: 12 cm