A collectible design. This handcrafted bowl by Edvin Öhrström represents the Ariel technique, one of the most complex and esteemed methods of glass and crystal artistry in Nordics. The bowl is both a functional object and an exquisite art piece, signed by the designer.
Orrefors Sweden. 1940s-1950s, rather early piece in Ariel hand production row. Dimensions: Height is 6.5 cm, Diameter is 11.5 cm. Excellent vintage condition. The piece is signed: Orrefors Sweden Ariel Nr 1008E Edvin Öhrström.
What is Ariel art glass?
The Ariel technique is highly demanding, involving a meticulous, three-stage process of crystal or glass crafting. Only the most skilled artisans can master it. Developed in 1936 at the Orrefors factory, Sweden, this intricate method involves a three-step production process. Initially, glass or crystal is carefully shaped; subsequently, a detailed internal design is crafted. This internal design creates Ariel's hallmark feature - decorative trapped air, lending the piece a distinctive silvery shimmer. In the final step, the object is reheated and blown again, achieving its ultimate form and size.
Named after Ariel, the spirit of air from Shakespeare's play "The Tempest," this technique poetically captures its airy and luminous nature. Ariel is closely related, both technically and historically, to another highly demanding Scandinavian glass art method, Graal.
The Ariel technique was first introduced in 1936 and remains revered due to its sophistication and artistic beauty. Each piece crafted with this method is either unique or produced in limited editions, often signed by their creators.
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