Lot 45

Pair of Bohemian Cobalt Blue Overlay Cut-to-Clear Crystal Candlesticks, Czech, 20th Century

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Pair of Bohemian Cobalt Blue Overlay Cut-to-Clear Crystal Candlesticks, Czech, 20th Century

Current Bid: $20

(2 Bids)

by California Auction Company LLC
August 1, 2026 9:00 AM PDT
Live Auction
1212 E. Harding Way
Stockton, CA, US 95205

An elegant pair of Bohemian cobalt blue overlay cut-to-clear crystal candlesticks, masterfully executed in richly saturated cobalt flashed crystal over clear glass. Distinguished by their refined proportions and brilliant contrast, each candlestick features a broad circular drip pan decorated with alternating polished petal and elongated lens cuts surrounding the candle socket. The baluster-form stems are further embellished with elongated oval "printie" cuts that reveal the underlying clear crystal, while the broad domed bases echo the floral motif with deeply cut scalloped decoration. The vibrant cobalt overlay technique, perfected by Bohemian glasshouses during the nineteenth and twentieth centuries, required the application of a thin layer of intensely colored crystal over a clear blank before painstaking hand cutting exposed the transparent layer beneath. This labor-intensive process created dramatic optical depth and remains one of the most admired achievements of Czech crystal production. Bohemia has long been regarded as one of Europe's foremost centers for luxury crystal manufacture, with celebrated firms such as Moser, Egermann, and numerous regional workshops producing finely cut decorative wares sought after throughout the world. The rich sapphire-blue coloration, crisp wheel-cut ornamentation, and balanced classical form exemplify the enduring appeal of this distinguished glassmaking tradition. Displaying beautifully both illuminated and unlit, these sculptural candlesticks serve as striking decorative objects while remaining highly functional. A sophisticated addition to collections of Bohemian crystal, colored overlay glass, or fine European decorative arts.

  • Literature: Comparable cobalt overlay cut crystal examples are illustrated in references covering twentieth-century Bohemian and Czech glassmaking, including works documenting the production of Moser, Egermann, and other distinguished Central European crystal manufacturers specializing in overlay and wheel-cut decorative crystal.
  • Circa: Mid to late 20th century, circa 1960–1985.
  • Condition: Overall very good vintage condition. Both candlesticks display beautifully with vibrant cobalt coloration and crisp cut decoration. Light surface wear consistent with careful age and use may be present, including minor wear to the underside of the bases. No obvious cracks, repairs, or significant chips were observed from the photographs. Please review all images carefully, as they form an integral part of the condition report.

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Bid Increments
From: To: Increments:
$0 $49 $5
$50 $199 $10
$200 $499 $25
$500 + $50