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Inviting Entries: Glass Decorative Objects


September 2025

Glass has a unique ability to transform light, colour and form – making it one of the most versatile and collectable mediums in decorative art. From centuries-old table pieces to bold contemporary creations, the appeal of glass lies not only in its craftsmanship but also in the way it blends function with beauty. Our upcoming Antiques & Decorative Objects Sale will once again showcase the full spectrum of glass design and we are now inviting entries.

 

Masterpieces of Modern Glass

Studio glass has become one of the most dynamic areas of the market. Collectors are drawn to its individuality, bold use of colour and form, and the prestige of owning signed works by respected makers. What makes it especially appealing is that no two pieces are quite the same – whether hand-blown, sculptural, or painterly in design, each carries the artist’s touch. This diversity means studio glass resonates with traditional collectors, contemporary art buyers, and interior designers alike.

The UK has a rich studio glass tradition, with contemporary makers increasingly celebrated for their originality and craftsmanship. Names such as John Ditchfield, Gillies Jones, Malcolm Sutcliffe, and Peter Layton are a few favourites in our salerooms. Their popularity lies in their blend of technical mastery with vivid, expressive design – qualities that consistently attract competitive bidding at auction.

Above Left to Right: Peter Layton art glass vase Sold £150, John Ditchfield for Glasform disc paperweight Sold £190 & Malcom Sutcliffe studio glass vase Sold £120

International Studio Glass

International names bring additional breadth to the market, appealing to buyers who favour bold design and distinctive style. Massimo Lunardon is admired for his playful, sculptural approach to everyday objects, while Raffaele Rossi blends colour and form in striking large-scale vases. Kosta Boda, particularly the work of Ulrica Hydman-Vallien, is instantly recognisable for its painterly designs. Other collectable international names include Lino Tagliapietra, Venini, Murano and Daum, all known for their artistry and innovation.

These makers sell well at auction because they offer affordable yet highly decorative statement pieces, with broad cross-over appeal to both collectors and interior designers. 

Above Left to Right: Kosta Boda “Open Minds” bowl and “Caramba” vase Sold £190, Raffaele Rossi (Italian 1956-): Large hand blown glass vase Sold £260, & Massimo Lunardon, set of six Goto tumblers Sold £130  

 

Timeless Elegance: Icons of Glassmaking 

Few names carry as much weight in glassmaking as René Lalique. A highlight from a recent sale was a rare Ceylan opalescent vase (model 905, circa 1924), which sold for £3,100. Other recent successes include the Sailfish mascot from the Essence of Speed collection, produced in collaboration with McLaren (£1,500) and an Actinia plate (£300), demonstrating the continuing strength of Lalique at auction.

British 20th-century glass also has a devoted following. Whitefriars, especially Geoffrey Baxter’s textured designs, remain highly collectable. French makers such as Baccarat and Saint-Louis continue to represent luxury and craftsmanship at its finest, while American crystal by Steuben and Art Nouveau creations by Gallé illustrate the breadth of styles collectors look for at auction.

Above Left to Right: Lalique Sailfish mascot in collaboration with McLaren Sold £1,500, Set of seven Baccarat wine glasses Sold £300 & Whitefriars “Drunken Bricklayer” vase in sage green Sold £750

 

Antique Glass: From Function to Collectable Treasure

Antique glass continues to command attention thanks to its craftsmanship, decorative flair, and links to social history. Collectors admire the elaborate forms that defined the Georgian and Victorian eras – from multi-tiered epergnes and novelty claret jugs to ornate oil lamps. These objects are not only decorative but also speak of the rituals of dining and entertaining in the 18th and 19th centuries.

Decorative glass also retains strong appeal in table settings, with cranberry oil lamps and cut glass serving pieces often featured in our salerooms. Alongside English production, Bohemian glass – renowned for its rich colours, gilding, and intricate cutting – also remains highly collectable, while antique pieces from makers such as Bristol Blue and Moser are admired for their artistry and quality.

Above Left to Right: Pair of cranberry glass and brass oil lamps Sold £110, Yellow glass claret jug in the form of a bear Sold £110 & Victorian ruby glass epergne Sold £24

 

Novelty & Collectable Glass

For many collectors, it’s the smaller and more unusual pieces of glass that hold the greatest charm. Paperweights remain a strong category – millefiori examples are especially popular, while unusual or early weights attract the keenest interest. 

Swarovski Crystal is another area where we see steady demand. With such a wide output, values can vary, but well-kept pieces with boxes and certificates tend to achieve the best results. Their playful crystal animals are popular with private buyers.

Quirky decorative glass such as Murano figures or whimsical continental novelties also perform well at auction. As always, quality and condition are the deciding factors, with finely made or unusual examples often generating strong competition.

Above Left to Right: Five millefiori paperweights including a Strathearn example Sold £70, Swarovski Raccoon Sold £95 & A collection of Victorian & later marbles Sold £320

 

Why Consign Now?

With international collectors, interior designers and private buyers all active in the market, now is the perfect time to consign glass decorative objects. Whether you own a single striking vase, a collection of crystal, or a family piece handed down across generations, our team would be delighted to advise on its potential at auction.

Entries are now invited for inclusion in our upcoming Antiques & Decorative Objects Sale. To arrange a free valuation or to discuss your items, please contact us today.
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