This is a piece of 1950s minmalistic Whitefriars glass. The vase was designed by William Wilson (1914 - 1986). It is shape or pattern number 9384. It dates to 1954. It is a fine piece of British post-war glass. This vase was made before Geoffrey Baxter was involved in glass production at Whitefriars. There is currently a renewed interest in these earlier Whitefriars glasswares designed by Powell, and subsequently Wilson.
Wilson was considered one of the finest 20th century glass engravers and was the leading exponent of diamond-point engraving. He became chief designer of Whitefriars in 1948 and was later appointed managing director. He held this position until he retired at the end of 1972.
This vase is harder to find and it is called a "flanged vase" referring to the applied flanges or the undulating lines of glass running down each side. The vase is oval in shape with a thicker more dense section at the base. The base has a quatrefoil shape below. It has a polished pontil mark. I love the pale blue colour - which is very much of its time. This shade is sapphire blue and it is reminiscent of the blue shade favoured by the Danish glass designer, Per Lutken.
The subtle colour and fluid form of this vase has made it a little tricky to photograph - it looks much better in "real life" than suggested in my snaps.
Dimensions: Height is 7 1/2 inches. The width at the widest point including flanges is 6 1/4 inches. The depth is 3 1/2 inches.
In good condition with no damage or chips. Listed at a fair price. Top Collecting Tip! look as these early post war British glasswares to top designers - prices are only predicted to rise.
It has a good bit of weight to it and will have to be sent with Royal Mail Tracked (Medium Parcel). This will be applied to your order at the checkout.