Loetz vase Lava PG 377 ca. 1900

The glass manufacturer Loetz first presented the “Lava” decor at the World Exhibition in Paris in 1900. To create the cracked surface structure, they picked up a medieval glassmaking technique. The hot piece is plunged into cold water, the cracked surface is rolled in silver oxide flakes, and then the glass is fused back again. This resulted in an innovative and distinctive pattern with a lava-like surface that was aesthetically and tactilely very different from previously known decors. The metallic coating beautifully stands out against the pink background, and the shape is skillfully emphasized by three handles that are pulled upwards.