'Flora' vase by František Koudelka for Prácheň (Czechoslovakia) 1970s

František Koudelka for Prácheň – ‘Flora’ Vase (Small)
Czechoslovakia, c.1970s
Height: 28 cm

A smaller example from the Flora series designed by František Koudelka for Prácheň Glassworks (Sklo Union). At 28 cm high, this version has a slightly slimmer, more delicate proportion than the larger form, with a cool blue base tone marbled through with soft white and plum-red veining.

Hand blown in thick cased glass, each Flora vase carries its own character; the swirling colour pattern is unique to every piece, created by folding layers of tinted glass during the blowing process. The silhouette - tiered, sculptural and quietly architectural - reflects Koudelka’s interest in rhythm and form, qualities that run through his work across the Czech glass industry of the mid-century period.

František Koudelka (1921–2007) trained at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague before becoming one of the key designers working for state-run glassworks in the 1960s and 70s. His pieces for Prácheň, Hermanice and Heřmanova Huť are now recognised for their refinement, clarity and confident use of colour, forming part of the wider reputation of Czech modernist glass internationally.

This Flora vase has particularly beautiful tonal variation, with a soft blue ground and sweeping marbled trails. A striking decorative object on its own, and especially strong when paired with other pieces from the series.

Details
– Designer: František Koudelka (1921–2007)
– Manufacturer: Prácheň Glassworks, Czechoslovakia
– Series: Flora
– Technique: Hand-blown cased glass
– Height: 28 cm
– Condition: Very good vintage condition with light wear to base consistent with age