Polycarbonate Vase, Transparent Green Mass, Post-1990s Era

This object is a molded thermoplastic vase produced by Kartell, identifiable by its uniform wall thickness, seamless curvature, and industrial translucency. The form and material indicate late 20th to early 21st century manufacture, consistent with Kartell’s post-1990 emphasis on transparent polycarbonate domestic ware. The material is injection-molded polycarbonate, mass-tinted in a saturated green rather than surface-coated. Surface gloss derives from mold polish rather than applied glaze. Its significance lies in the translation of blown-glass vessel geometry into industrial plastic, characteristic of Kartell’s design language during its exploration of transparent polymers in domestic objects.

I. Polymer Body & Structural Composition

The body is molded from polycarbonate, evidenced by its uniform translucency, consistent wall thickness, and absence of hand-formed irregularity. Construction is achieved through injection molding in a two-part steel mold, resulting in a continuous form without applied elements. The waist transition and flared rim are integral to the mold design rather than secondary shaping. Wall thickness remains even through the neck constriction, indicating controlled cooling and stable mold pressure. The base is slightly thickened to lower the center of gravity, providing stability without excessive material use. There is no structural distortion or warping, suggesting controlled cooling and absence of post-mold stress deformation. Structural integrity is intact and separate from superficial surface wear.

II. Surface Finish & Molding Evidence

The surface gloss is inherent to the mold finish, not a secondary coating. The clarity and reflectivity indicate a high-polish cavity surface typical of Kartell’s production standards. No evidence of flame polishing or hand finishing is present. Color saturation is consistent throughout the mass, confirming integral pigmentation rather than surface dye or lacquer. Light diffusion is even, without flow lines or pigment pooling, indicating competent injection pressure and resin mixing. There is no evidence of ultraviolet degradation such as clouding or embrittlement. Minor surface abrasions, if present, would reflect handling rather than material breakdown.

III. Decorative Method & Color Application

There is no applied decoration. Color is embedded within the polymer during compounding prior to injection. The green tone is saturated but translucent, designed to evoke colored glass without mimicking hand-crafted irregularity. The absence of surface printing, decal, or metallic trim situates the object within Kartell’s minimal industrial aesthetic. The decorative effect relies solely on mass coloration and form. This aligns with late 20th-century industrial design priorities emphasizing material honesty within synthetic production.

IV. Form Proportion & Functional Ergonomics

The form consists of a bulbous lower reservoir, a constricted waist, and a flared cylindrical neck. The wide base provides stability against tipping, appropriate for water-filled use. The neck flare allows for bouquet dispersion while the waist provides a natural grip point for lifting. Rim thickness is mechanically uniform and slightly rounded, reducing stress concentration and edge chipping risk common in glass analogues. The vessel’s geometry balances visual lift with a low center of gravity, ensuring functional steadiness during use.

V. Production Context & Industrial Position

Kartell’s production model emphasizes industrial polymer innovation within domestic design. This vase belongs to the company’s period of expanding transparent polycarbonate applications in household objects. Production scale is industrial and repeatable, not limited-run studio output. It occupies a mid- to upper-tier design retail position rather than mass discount ware. The object reflects late modern industrial design values—precision molding, material experimentation, and formal clarity without ornament. It is not artisanal but intentionally industrial.

VI. Markings, Stamps & Attribution Audit

Kartell products typically carry molded marks integrated into the base, often including brand name and material designation. The presence of such molded identification would confirm attribution. The consistency of form and material aligns with known Kartell production. There is no indication of third-party retailer branding or co-production marks. Attribution to Kartell is highly probable based on form language and material execution consistent with their cataloged output.

VII. Preservation State & Intervention Evidence

The polymer body shows no structural cracking, splitting, or heat warping. Surface gloss remains consistent, indicating limited abrasion. No evidence of solvent exposure, which would produce surface haze or stress fractures. The rim shows no deformation or impact damage. There are no repairs, adhesive residues, or refinishing attempts. The object remains stable for functional use. Minor surface scuffs, if present, would be consistent with ordinary handling rather than degradation.

VIII. Market Standing & Value Estimation

Current secondary market value for comparable Kartell polycarbonate vases in good condition typically ranges between 350 and 500 USD depending on size and color rarity. Liquidity is moderate within design-focused resale platforms and lower within general decorative markets. Replacement cost through retail channels would exceed typical resale value. Material value is negligible; valuation derives from brand positioning and design authorship within industrial plastic design history. Appreciation potential is limited but stable within modern design collecting categories.