This decorative set of “Crazy Bottles,” crafted by Claude and Florence Morin in the 1970s, showcases the unique artistry and pioneering spirit of French glassmaking. Each vase is hand-blown, resulting in a one-of-a-kind shape and vivid transparent color that make them striking decor in any space. The playful, irregular shapes reflect the freeform approach that Claude Morin became known for, offering both charm and originality. The vases are mostly marked ‘Morin’ or Dieulefit, like these vases as well.
Claude Morin, born in Dieulefit, France, in 1905, initially trained as an engineer and worked in the family textile business. When the factory closed in 1970, he pursued a new passion for glassmaking, spurred on by his wife, Florence Seydoux, after they visited a local glass artist. Despite limited opportunities for independent glass artisans, Morin opened his own workshop, *Le Pontil*, where he designed and built his own ovens to produce vases, pitchers, cups, and soliflores in a vivid array of colors.
Morin’s creations, tinted directly in the glass mass, range from purples to greens, oranges, blues, and yellows, displaying refined and balanced lines that became his signature style. His early success came unexpectedly; he first showcased his work in Geneva intending to display wood carvings but ended up gaining acclaim for his glasswork. His bold designs, including the famous “Crazy Bottles,” led him to international recognition, with exhibits in major galleries and institutions, including the Musée des Arts Décoratifs in Paris.
In 1978, Morin founded the Association for the Development of Artistic Creation of Glass to elevate French glass artistry. A retrospective on his work from 1961 to 2005 further celebrated his contributions, underscoring his legacy as a modern pioneer in glassmaking.
Kindly note that the listed price is for the set of 4 vases.
Designer: | Claude & Florence Morin | |
Type: | Crazy bottles | |
Manufacturer: | Le Pontil | |
Year: | 1976 - 1984 | |
Country: | France | |
Materials: | Glass | |
Condition: | Good | |
Height: | 12-29 cm | |
Width: | 12-17 cm | |
Depth: | 12-17 cm | |
Item nr: | VR22JUL17 / PVF23NO13 / PVF23NO131 |
Holland / Belgium: | € Free | |
Europe: | € 75 - 150 | |
Outside Europe: | € 150 - 250 |