Empoli Balloon Vase

Empoli optic ruby red glass balloon vase with a clear stem.

Empoli glass is a style of artistic glassware produced in Empoli, Tuscany, Italy. This region has a long history of glassmaking, dating back to the Renaissance. Empoli glass is known for its vibrant colors, particularly ruby red, and distinctive shapes, often featuring optic patterns and applied elements. This particular piece, a balloon or pumpkin-shaped vase with an optic rib pattern and a clear stem, is characteristic of Empoli glass produced in the mid-20th century, roughly from the 1950s to the 1970s. These decorative vases were popular for their bold colors and playful designs, making them common decorative items in homes during that era.