Sera Seratar

Sera Seratar

Bořek Šípek (1949–2016) was one of the most distinguished figures in Czech and international design at the turn of the twentieth and twenty-first centuries. An architect, designer and glass artist, he became renowned for his unmistakable artistic language, combining imagination, Baroque exuberance, refined elegance and exceptional craftsmanship. His creations transcend the boundaries between decorative arts, functional design and sculpture, transforming everyday objects into extraordinary works of art. He achieved international recognition through his ability to combine traditional glassmaking techniques with bold, often surrealist compositions. A significant chapter of his career was his collaboration with President Václav Havel, for whom he designed interiors at Prague Castle. Today, Šípek's glass creations are highly appreciated by collectors for their originality, decorative appeal and distinctive artistic identity. Sera Seratar is a remarkable glass vase dating from 2016, conceived more as a delicate three-dimensional sculpture than as a conventional vessel. Its tall, slender body is formed from a fascinating network of clear glass strands and sculptural textures, creating the impression of exceptionally fine, almost ethereal lace. The transparent structure intertwines and overlaps irregularly, capturing light in countless tiny reflections and lending the work extraordinary depth and visual lightness. The dynamic composition culminates in an organically shaped, open rim accentuated by striking pink glass edges. These flow down the surface in irregular lines, creating a captivating contrast between the transparent latticework and the richly coloured glass. The overall effect evokes a glass flower unfolding or a precious piece of lace transformed into a three-dimensional artwork. The vase is signed and dated 2016 on its underside. It is accompanied by a certificate confirming an original design by Bořek Šípek, dated 26 January 2016, together with written confirmation from Petr Mader of Šípek Team s.r.o. that the artist personally signed this vase. CURATOR'S TIP This vase is an exceptionally decorative example of Šípek's ability to transform glass into an almost weightless sculptural composition. Its greatest appeal lies in the contrast between the extraordinarily delicate lace-like structure and the expressive pink applications, which lend the work energy and an unmistakable character. Under carefully positioned lighting, the vase appears to glow, revealing a fascinating interplay of light and shadow within its intricate structure. Particular collecting interest lies in its dating to 2016, the final year of the artist's life, and especially in the accompanying documentation confirming his personal signature. It is a striking statement piece that will appeal not only to admirers of Czech studio glass but also to collectors of distinctive international design. The combination of technical complexity, artistic originality and documented provenance makes this vase a particularly compelling collector's item. FOR INVESTORS The collecting appeal of Bořek Šípek's glass art is supported by documented results on the auction market. A particularly relevant comparison is the sale of a Sera Seratar vase from 2016, which achieved CZK 55,000 at the 70th auction of Sýpka Auction House on 22 June 2025. The comparable example was executed in clear and pink-tinted glass, measured 54 cm in height, was signed and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity. The present example stands out for its impressive height of 55 cm, intricate lace-like structure and expressive pink glass applications. Its collecting appeal is further enhanced by its date, corresponding to the final year of Šípek's life, and by the accompanying documentation, including written confirmation that the artist personally signed the vase. With a starting price of CZK 39,000 – CZK 16,000 below the documented auction result for a comparable example – this lot offers a particularly attractive starting point for bidders. The difference represents approximately 41% of the present starting price, highlighting the appeal of the opening bid, while the final hammer price will depend on bidding activity. For collectors of Czech studio glass, this represents an opportunity to acquire a remarkable work by an internationally celebrated designer whose artistic legacy remains firmly established in the world of collectible design. The combination of a documented signature, exceptional artistic execution and a relevant auction comparison makes this vase a noteworthy offering for discerning collectors.