Bertil Vallien, the contemporary Swedish artist renowned for his ethereal sand-casted glass sculptures, unveils a mesmerizing creation in “ABRAX II #999213.” Executed in 1999, this piece transcends mere materiality, inviting viewers into a realm where ancient runes and primal symbolism converge.
The sculpture assumes the form of a horizontal boat—a vessel suspended between two slender metal stands. Its deep blue glass, speckled with white, evokes cosmic mysteries or perhaps the depths of an unseen ocean. Vallien’s mastery of sand-casting techniques is evident in the intricate textures that ripple across the surface. Some areas remain smooth, while others bear the marks of time and elemental forces.
Within this glass vessel, secrets reside. Faces emerge, haunting and enigmatic, as if memories of forgotten voyages linger. Vallien’s choice of industrial processes—originally intended for metalworking—adds complexity. The result is a fusion of material and method, harking back to the populist roots of Modernism.
“ABRAX II #999213” beckons us to embark on an introspective journey. It whispers of distant shores, lost narratives, and the timeless quest for meaning. As we gaze upon its enigmatic form, we become travelers, navigating the currents of imagination and memory.
This glass sculpture, with its coded language of form and color, invites contemplation. Vallien’s legacy as an innovator in contemporary glass art finds expression here—a testament to the enduring power of creativity and the human spirit.
Provenance: Heller Gallery, 1999; Private Collection
HEIGHT: 23 IN (58.42 CM)WIDTH: 34.25 IN (87 CM)DEPTH: 4.125 IN (10.48 CM)
