Artist: Dale Chihuly
Title: Tabac Basket with Brown Threads and Lip Wrap
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Size: 5" x 9.5"
Year: Circa 1970s
Documentation: Includes Gallery Certificate of Authenticity
Dale Chihuly's Tabac Basket with Brown Threads and Lip Wrap is a quintessential example of the artist's groundbreaking exploration of form and technique during the 1970s. Measuring 5” x 9.5”, this handblown glass vessel is distinguished by its organic, undulating shape, subtle amber-toned translucence, and delicate brown thread-like patterns that seem to dance across its surface. The piece is finished with a gracefully applied brown lip wrap, emphasizing the fluidity and elegance of Chihuly's aesthetic.
The Tabac Basket series represents an important turning point in Chihuly's career. Inspired by the pliable forms of Native American baskets that had slumped over time, Chihuly sought to translate this visual softness into glass, a medium traditionally associated with rigidity. The result was a series of asymmetrical, gravity-defying vessels that marked a departure from the symmetrical forms of his earlier Cylinders and Soft Cylinders. Each piece captures the spontaneity of the glassblowing process, showcasing Chihuly's ability to embrace imperfections and natural distortions as integral to the final work.
This piece's warm, earthy palette is characteristic of Chihuly's early works, which often featured more subdued tones compared to the vibrant colors that would later define his style. The intricate brown threads and flowing patterns foreshadow the artist's lifelong fascination with layering color and texture to create depth and movement.
Created during a period when Chihuly's studio operated on a much smaller scale, early Tabac Baskets like this one are highly sought after by collectors. Their rarity, combined with their historical and artistic significance, makes them prized additions to any collection. This piece is inscribed by the artist and comes with a gallery certificate of authenticity, affirming its place in the legacy of one of the most influential figures in contemporary glass art.
About Dale Chihuly
Dale Chihuly is a visionary artist whose groundbreaking contributions to contemporary glass art have earned him international acclaim. Known for his monumental sculptures and immersive installations, Chihuly has redefined the possibilities of glass as an expressive medium. His iconic works, such as the stunning ceiling at the Bellagio in Las Vegas and the magnificent Rotunda Chandelier at London's Victoria and Albert Museum, are celebrated for their vibrant color, innovative design, and technical brilliance. Chihuly's creations are coveted by collectors and admired by decorative arts enthusiasts around the world.
Chihuly's journey into glass art began with a deep fascination for the material's fluidity and potential. Though initially uninterested in traditional academics, he pursued advanced degrees in sculpture and design, blending scientific inquiry with artistic exploration. A pivotal chapter in his career unfolded when he became a Fulbright Fellow and apprenticed at the Venini Glass Factory in Venice, where he studied the ancient art of Murano glassblowing. These formative experiences inspired Chihuly to push the boundaries of glass, blending traditional techniques with modern innovation.
Throughout his career, Chihuly has created a diverse range of works, each series reflecting his boundless creativity. From the experimental Cylinders and Baskets of the 1970s to the intricate Macchia, Venetians, and Persians of the 1980s, his art evolves with every decade. The monumental Niijima Floats and Chandeliers of the 1990s and the organic, nature-inspired Fiori series of the 2000s further exemplify his dynamic approach to glass artistry.
After two life-altering accidents, including one that left him blind in one eye, Chihuly transitioned from directly blowing glass to leading a team of skilled artisans. For over 30 years, his role as artistic director has enabled him to realize ambitious projects while maintaining his signature aesthetic and innovative vision.
With works featured in over 200 major collections and numerous honorary awards, including twelve honorary doctorates, Dale Chihuly's legacy as a pioneer of glass art endures, inspiring awe and admiration in audiences worldwide.