1930s–1940s – Art Deco – Czech Malachite Glass Butterfly Vases (Matched Pair)

Origin:

Produced by the Desna glassworks of Bohemia, Czechoslovakia — confirmed by the "DESNA" stamp visible on the base — these small vases are classic examples of the Art Deco malachite glass tradition associated with Curt and Henry Schlevogt, active from the 1930s through the mid-20th century. The bulbous body, narrow neck, and flared collar rim are characteristic Desna forms, while the high-relief pressed butterfly and foliate motifs covering the body are among the most recognizable patterns in the Schlevogt canon. The malachite effect — a deep hunter green with internal lighter-green striations — was achieved through a specialized pressed-glass formula that mimicked the look of natural malachite stone. Dating to approximately 1930–1945 based on form, technique, and documented auction records for comparable Schlevogt Bohemian pieces.

Condition:

• Both vases in very good vintage condition
• No chips, cracks, or repairs observed
• Minor surface wear consistent with age and handling
• The malachite glass finish and relief decoration are crisp and intact on both pieces
• A matched pair — well-suited for symmetrical display

Details:

• Maker: Desna / Schlevogt glassworks, Bohemia, Czechoslovakia
• Era: Art Deco, circa 1930s–1940s
• Material: Pressed malachite glass (opaque green with internal striations)
• Decoration: High-relief pressed butterfly and floral motifs; polished relief against matte-satin background
• Form: Globular body on foot ring, narrow neck, flared collar rim
• Mark: "DESNA" stamped on base
• Sold as a matched pair

Perfect for:

• Art Deco and Bohemian glass collectors
• Mantelpiece or shelf vignettes — especially effective displayed as a symmetrical pair
• Green-palette interiors or maximalist, jewel-toned rooms
• A gift for the vintage glass or Czechoslovakian art glass enthusiast
• Bud vases for a single stem or small dried botanicals

Design Notes:

Desna malachite glass occupies a special place in 20th-century decorative arts — an affordable luxury of the Art Deco era that brought the look of precious stone into the bourgeois home. The butterfly motif, rendered in bold low-relief across the globe of each vase, has a totemic, almost animist quality that sits well alongside both period Art Deco interiors and contemporary maximalist design. As a matching pair with confirmed maker's marks, these vases represent a particularly collectible find.