‘Flora’ Vase by František Koudelka for Prácheň (Czechoslovakia) 1970s

František Koudelka for Prácheň - ‘Flora’ Vase
Czechoslovakia, c.1970s
Height: 35.2 cm

A sculptural ‘Flora’ vase designed by František Koudelka for Prácheň Glassworks (Sklo Union), one of the most inventive and influential Czech glass manufacturers of the mid-20th century.

The piece is formed in thick, cased glass with swirling tones of soft white, blush, and earthy red, creating a marbled, almost organic effect. The silhouette - a tall, tiered form with gently shifting curves - is characteristic of Koudelka’s work: modern, architectural, and quietly expressive.

Koudelka (born 1921) was one of the leading designers working within the Czech state glass industry in the 1960s-70s. After studying at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague, he went on to design a wide range of pressed and blown glass for factories such as Heřmanova Huť, Hermanice and Prácheň. His pieces are now recognised for their clarity of form and experimental use of colour, qualities that helped define the reputation of Czech modernist glass internationally.

The Flora series for Prácheň is among his most sought after work, each piece hand-blown, with subtle variations in colour flow and patterning. This example has particularly beautiful marbling and a strong, architectural presence at over 35 cm high.

A collectible work of Czech modernist glass and a striking standalone object for shelves, sideboards or larger styling spaces.

Details
– Designer: František Koudelka (1921–2007)
– Manufacturer: Prácheň Glassworks, Czechoslovakia
– Series: Flora
– Technique: Hand-blown cased glass, marbled coloration
– Height: 35 cm
– Condition: Very good vintage condition with light wear at the base consistent with age, no cracks or knocks