Designs by country
Bulb vases were generally produced in the countries where the forcing of hyacinths was popular. In the 18th and 19th centuries, beautiful free-blown vases were produced. Later they were often blown in moulds or manufactured on a greater industrial scale by mechanically blowing the vases. Each country made specific models, often very typical for the country.
Rimac vases from Holland.
Model Super (top) and Primo (bottom) in different colours.
[click image to enlarge]
French footed hyacinth vases in combined colours of amber and light blue. Footed hyacinth vases are generally rather rare, but in France many types are to be found.
[click image to enlarge]
Attractive and rich decorated
Probably the most abundant vases originate from France: vases on foot, often beautifully decorated in different styles and many mechanically blown Art Deco vases. In Great Britain the forcing of hyacinths was very popular as well, and many wonderful vases were produced. Classic hyacinth vase models occur there, but also attractive free-blown vases and mould-blown ones in various designs. The British bulb vase was, without doubt, at its height in the Victorian era. Some of the vases found in Britain were produced in Bohemia for the British market.
simple and strong design
The vases produced in Holland, Belgium, Germany and Scandinavia were generally more simple in form, but at the same time show strong designs which makes them very interesting as well. The United States produced many interesting models, too, both classic or more modern in design, depending on age.
Various Scandinavian hyacinth vases. The blue vase, third from the left is a Finnish Riimaki hyacinth vase, designed by Helena Tynell. The one on the right is possibly from Canada. The vase in the centre is a hyacinth vase made by Fyen, Denmark.
[click image to enlarge]
The ‘Bloembollenglazenclub’ is established in Hillegom, the Netherlands in 1998. Of about 80 members, 50 meet regularly to discuss bulb vases.
[click image to enlarge]
Popular Collector’s Item
This diversity in vases combined with their functional resemblance in shape make hyacinth vases popular items to collect. It is estimated that world-wide, several hundred collectors exist. In the Netherlands there is even a bulb-vase collectors’ club.
In the meantime, my collection has grown so large that part of it is now available for purchase. If you are interested in a hyacinth or bulb vase, please feel free to contact me
unique hyacinth (bulb vases) and handmade oil paintings
The unique collection of hyacinth vases (bulb vases) belonging to Wim Granneman is for sale, as well as his handmade collection oil paintings, inspired by the vibrant flower bulb fields of the Bulb District (Bollenstreek) in Holland. The vase collection includes many more than shown on the website and is available as a whole or in sets, for instance by country of origin. Parts of the vase collection and oil paitings have been exhibited in various museums.
Interested? Please don’t hesitate to get in touch.