Milan Metelák Sculptural Glass Bowl

A refined example of Czech glass, this sculptural bowl was designed by Milan Metelák for Harrachov Glassworks in 1962.
 
Free blown in warm amber glass, the bowl features a carefully controlled optical decoration created through air inclusions within the thick glass body. Beginning as small, precise bubbles near the lower section, the decoration gradually expands into larger lens like forms towards the rim, creating a sense of depth, movement and shifting transparency as light passes through the glass.
 
The amber bowl rises from an integral clear glass base, formed as part of the original piece rather than added separately. This contrast between the coloured upper form and the transparent lower section enhances the sculptural quality of the design and reflects Metelák’s understanding of glass as a sculptural medium. With its organic form, substantial weight and innovative optical decoration, model 5/4080 is a striking example of his distinctive approach to glass design.
 
Milan Metelák joined Harrachov Glassworks in 1955, where he developed a distinctive approach to form, colour and optical effects. Coming from an important glassmaking family, he established a design language of his own and it was at Harrachov that his personal vision for glass took a mature and recognisable form.
 
Designer: Milan Metelák (1928–1993)
Manufacturer: Harrachov Glassworks, Czechoslovakia
Design year: 1962
Model: 5/4080
Material: Amber coloured glass with integral clear glass base
Technique: Free blown glass with controlled optical air inclusion decoration
Dimensions: Diameter 25cm Height 14cm
Condition: Excellent vintage condition 
Literature: Czechoslovak Glass Review, Vol. 23, No. 8, 1968, p. 269, model 5/4080 illustrated.
 
Ref: T1360