Floris Meydam 1953 Serica bottle vases No. 60219

Pair of Floris Meydam “Serica” Bottle vases No. 60219 for glasfabriek Leerdam, 1953

Netherlands, 1953

Dimensions

Tallest: H. 39 cm (15.35 in) x D. 10 cm (3.94 in)
Smaller: H. 33.5 cm (13.19 in) x D. 9 cm (3.54 in)

Details

A refined pair of Serica bottle vases, model no. 60219, designed by Floris Meydam in 1953 for Glasfabriek Leerdam. These vases embody the essence of postwar Dutch modernism: calm, balanced, and impeccably proportioned.

The Serica line occupied a special place in Leerdam’s collection: neither unique studio works nor mass-produced items, but limited-production pieces hand-blown and finished by skilled artisans. Each example bears subtle individual nuances, reflecting the mastery of Dutch glassmaking in its golden era.

The graceful transition from deep cobalt blue to soft opaline white gives these bottle vases a tranquil, almost meditative quality. Their elongated necks and organic silhouettes capture light beautifully, emphasizing Meydam’s sculptural sense of form and balance.

Comparative Context

Meydam’s designs share the same purity of vision found in the work of Tapio Wirkkala and Kaj Franck of Finland: artists who likewise distilled glass to its essential form and expression. Like Andries Copier, Meydam’s mentor at Leerdam, he combined artistic refinement with functional clarity, placing him among Europe’s foremost modernist glass designers of the mid-20th century.

About Floris Meydam (1919–2011)

A key figure in Dutch design, Meydam succeeded Andries Copier as chief designer at Glasfabriek Leerdam in 1949. His work is distinguished by its harmonious proportions, restrained use of color, and elegant simplicity. Meydam’s designs are represented in major museum collections including the Rijksmuseum and the Nationaal Glasmuseum Leerdam.

About Glasfabriek Leerdam

Founded in 1878, Glasfabriek Leerdam became the cornerstone of Dutch modern glass. Collaborations with artists like Copier, Meydam, and Copier’s successors established a uniquely Dutch aesthetic: functional, modern, and always executed with extraordinary craftsmanship.

Condition

Wear consistent with age and use.