Vase by Ulrica Hydman-Vallien
For Kosta Boda
Sweden, late 20th century
Blown and hand-painted glass
Signed.
SOLD: 85,000 ISK
A striking example of Ulrica Hydman-Vallien’s signature expressive style, this vase was designed for the renowned Swedish glassworks Kosta Boda. Known for her bold, whimsical, and often surreal motifs, Hydman-Vallien brings a vibrant and personal visual language to traditional glass forms. The vase features coloured glass body slightly flared. Hand-painted decoration in typically in vivid enamel colours. Signature motifs may include stylised faces, snakes, eyes, flowers, or abstract female figures, rendered in bold brushstrokes and fluid, organic forms. Signed to the base with “Kosta Boda / Ulrica H-V” or similar inscription.
This piece exemplifies Hydman-Vallien’s desire to imbue glass with emotion, personality, and narrative, rejecting minimalism in favour of artistic spontaneity. Ulrica Hydman-Vallien (1938–2018) was one of Sweden’s most celebrated and unconventional glass artists. She worked with Kosta Boda from the 1970s onward, breaking with traditional Scandinavian restraint by infusing her work with playfulness, colour, and a strong figurative presence. Her work is internationally collected and instantly recognisable.
Height of the vase 19 cm