Ernest Gordon vases

This pair of glass vases was designed by Ernest Gordon and produced by Åfors Glasbruk in Sweden during the 1960s. Crafted from thick-walled glass, the vases feature a smooth, transparent surface in a muted blue-gray tone. Their forms are asymmetrical, characterized by organic, flowing rims that lend a sculptural and dynamic quality to each piece. The bases are cylindrical and clear, creating a visual contrast that emphasizes the colored upper sections.

Both vases are in well-preserved condition, showing no visible cracks or chips. The glass surfaces retain their original gloss, while the bases display minor wear consistent with their age. Each vase is signed on the underside with “Åfors E. Gordon GH.557” confirming their authenticity and origin.

Ernest Gordon was a notable designer within Swedish glassmaking, contributing significantly to the modernist aesthetic that shaped Scandinavian glass in the mid-20th century. Åfors Glasbruk, a respected Swedish glassworks, was recognized for its hand-blown glass objects marked by refined craftsmanship and minimalist elegance.

These vases exemplify the mid-century Scandinavian design ethos through their organic shapes, quality materials, and understated sophistication. The fluid contours and subdued monochrome palette align with the period’s preference for natural forms and subtle coloration. Each vase measures approximately 15 centimeters in diameter and 16.5 centimeters in height (5.9 by 6.5 inches), balancing functional form with artistic expression.