Daum Nancy Cameo Vase

Romantic Realism in Wheel-Carved Glass

• Dimensions: Height: 5.5 inches, Width: 6 inches, Depth: 6 inches
• Material: Multi-layered cameo glass with wheel-carved detailing
• Color Palette: Rosy pink, peach, orange, fuchsia, magenta, and plum
• Motif: Deeply carved orchid blossoms and upward-sweeping leaves
• Surface Finish: Matte-satin body with sculptural relief and light-reactive depth
• Signature: Etched “Daum Nancy” with the Cross of Lorraine near the base

This extraordinary Daum Nancy wheel-carved cameo glass vase stands as a crowning example of botanical Art Nouveau. With its softly rounded form, gently flared lip, and rich interplay of light and texture, the vase radiates organic elegance. Layers of glowing pinks and sunset-toned glass provide the perfect backdrop for masterfully carved orchid motifs—each flower blooming in vibrant hues of fuchsia and magenta, their petals rendered in high relief through expert wheel carving.

Sculptural Orchids with Symbolic Grace

Orchid blossoms emerge from the vase’s surface with dramatic dimensionality, their forms outlined and contoured by hand-carving techniques that bring each detail to life. Graceful plum-toned leaves reach upward from the base, grounding the composition with rhythm and flow. Long celebrated as symbols of beauty, strength, and refinement, orchids take on a new expressive power in this dynamic floral tableau.

Key Features of the Daum Nancy Orchid Vase

• Wheel-carved orchid blossoms in high relief, with layered glass for depth and contrast
• Softly marbled ground in translucent peach, rose, and white tones
• Deep magenta and maroon floral elements provide sculptural detail and color harmony
• Rounded form with a subtly flared rim and dark polished base
• Authentic etched signature “Daum Nancy” with Cross of Lorraine confirming provenance
• Exemplary example of Art Nouveau craftsmanship from the École de Nancy

Ethereal Color Meets Botanical Sculpture

The body of the vase glows with light from within, thanks to its marbled ground that swirls with warm orange-pink hues. These pastel tones evoke a dreamy dawn or gentle twilight, enhancing the romantic tone of the composition. The delicate matte finish adds softness, while the wheel-carved blooms catch light and shadow to stunning effect.

A Collectible Jewel of French Glassmaking

This signed Daum Nancy vase is a work of art that transcends function. Its complex form, lyrical botanical subject, and expert technique make it a treasure for collectors, design historians, and enthusiasts of the Art Nouveau aesthetic. Whether placed in a curated vitrine or given as an heirloom-worthy gift, it commands attention and admiration with quiet, floral drama.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the dimensions of the Daum Nancy orchid vase?

The vase stands 5.5 inches tall and measures approximately 6 inches in width and depth, making it a compact yet visually powerful decorative piece.

What materials and techniques were used in its creation?

This vase is made of multi-layered cameo glass. The orchid motifs were brought to life using wheel-carving, a labor-intensive technique that sculpts dimensional relief from layered glass.

What is the significance of the orchid design?

Orchids symbolize rare beauty, strength, and refinement. In Art Nouveau, they often represented sensuality and the elegance of nature’s forms—perfectly captured in this vase’s sculptural composition.

Is the vase signed?

Yes, the piece is signed “Daum Nancy” along with the Cross of Lorraine, the hallmark of authenticity for Daum glass produced in the studio’s Nancy workshop.

What colors are present in the vase?

The vase features a dreamy blend of peach, rose, orange, and white, with orchid blossoms in vibrant fuchsia, magenta, and plum, creating a warm and harmonious color palette.

Is this a functional or purely decorative piece?

While it could hold flowers, the vase is best appreciated as a decorative or collectible artwork, especially due to the intricate carving and historical significance.

How should I care for this vase?

Handle with care and display in a stable, softly lit environment. Clean gently with a dry microfiber cloth. Avoid moisture, abrasive materials, or direct sunlight to preserve its surface and coloration.

Is this suitable as a collector’s item or gift?

Absolutely. This vase’s artistry, subject matter, and signed provenance make it ideal for collectors of fine French glass, Art Nouveau aficionados, or as a meaningful gift for major occasions.