Umhuya Fan Vase in Disko Metal, Model D20, Denmark 1920s

Nine deep flutes open outward from a small oval foot, the rim rising and falling in a scalloped line, with scroll lugs at each end. Made by Umhuya (1884-1943), born in Greenland, trained as sculptor and silversmith, working from his Copenhagen workshop from 1918. Cast in Disko metal – his own lead, tin and antimony alloy named after Disko Bay – sitting in colour between pewter and dark bronze.

Base stamped JUST within a triangle and model number D 20. H 16.5 cm, W 18 cm, D 9.5 cm.