Description
Ion Tamaian (born 1954) is a Romanian studio glass artist known for his sculptural, nature-inspired forms. Born in Borlești and trained at the Academy of Fine Arts in Cluj-Napoca, his work blends abstraction and organic movement. His one-of-a-kind glass vessels and sculptures have been exhibited and sold internationally and are widely represented on the secondary art market.
This signed Ion Tamaian art glass vase measures 18 ¾ inches high, 12 ¾ inches wide, and 6 ¼ inches deep, and has a strong sculptural presence. The body is formed in deep matte purple glass with a soft, velvety surface that diffuses light. From the front it appears broad and gently flared; from the side it narrows dramatically, emphasizing its shallow, relief-like profile. The opening is irregular and slightly tilted, highlighting its hand-formed character.
A dramatic clear glass element rises across the front, reading as a flame or elongated droplet emerging from the surface. Layered ribbons of clear molten glass wrap and loop around this central form, creating depth, movement, and contrast against the matte purple ground. The clear glass catches light beautifully, with subtle striations and tiny air bubbles visible from close view. The reverse is quieter, allowing the rich purple surface to dominate.
Signed "Tamà ion" in the clear glass near the base, this piece is a striking example of Tamaian's ability to merge technical control with expressive, organic design
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: age related wear. No chips or cracks
Origin:
Romania
Creator:
Styled After: Dale Chihuly
Materials & Techniques:
Art Glass, Blown Glass
International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.
This signed Ion Tamaian art glass vase measures 18 ¾ inches high, 12 ¾ inches wide, and 6 ¼ inches deep, and has a strong sculptural presence. The body is formed in deep matte purple glass with a soft, velvety surface that diffuses light. From the front it appears broad and gently flared; from the side it narrows dramatically, emphasizing its shallow, relief-like profile. The opening is irregular and slightly tilted, highlighting its hand-formed character.
A dramatic clear glass element rises across the front, reading as a flame or elongated droplet emerging from the surface. Layered ribbons of clear molten glass wrap and loop around this central form, creating depth, movement, and contrast against the matte purple ground. The clear glass catches light beautifully, with subtle striations and tiny air bubbles visible from close view. The reverse is quieter, allowing the rich purple surface to dominate.
Signed "Tamà ion" in the clear glass near the base, this piece is a striking example of Tamaian's ability to merge technical control with expressive, organic design
Condition:
Alterations: Original Condition Unaltered
Imperfections: Some Imperfections
Condition Notes: age related wear. No chips or cracks
Origin:
Romania
Creator:
Styled After: Dale Chihuly
Materials & Techniques:
Art Glass, Blown Glass
International: No International Shipping for this auction.
Combined shipping: Please ask about combined shipping for multiple lots before bidding.
Condition
Original Condition Unaltered; Some Imperfections; age related wear. No chips or cracks
Buyer's Premium
20%
Dimensions
18.75 x 12.78 x 6.25 in
Art Glass Purple Vase Signed by Ion Tamaian
Estimate $500-$1,500
Starting Price
$240
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The Summer Salon I
Jun 19, 2026 4:00 PM EDTNew York, NY, United States
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