A unique piece of art and collectible design. This handcrafted vase Meteor by Lars Hellsten represents the Ariel technique, one of the most complex and esteemed methods of glass and crystal artistry in Nordics. The vase is both a functional object and an exquisite art piece, personally signed by the designer.
Orrefors Sweden. 1980s. Dimensions: Height is 16 cm, Diameter is 15 cm, Weight is 5.5 kg. Excellent vintage condition. The piece is signed: Orrefors 4670-22 Lars Hellsten.
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.
Our vase was created by Lars Hellsten (1933–2022), one of Sweden’s most celebrated modernist designers, renowned for iconic designs such as the Corona candlestick. Hellsten’s work is celebrated internationally and considered iconic within Sweden’s National modernist tradition.
