Pair of early Loetz Thorn Vases in Aurora (Pink Opal), PN I-3016, ca. 1891

This wonderful matched pair of vases by Loetz, ca. 1891, were formerly in the estate of Ruth Lilly, great-granddaughter of Eli Lilly, the founder of Eli Lilly and Company pharmaceuticals. Documentation on Loetz pieces of this era is sparse, but I was able to locate a paper pattern in Vol. 2 of Loetz Bohemian Glass 1880-1940 that closely matches this design. The pink opal color was known as "Aurora", according to written sources. As rare as these are, it is equally as rare to find them completely undamaged, as both these pieces are. They stand about 9" tall.