Daum Nancy "Arizona" Cactus Coupe, Designed by Hilton McConnico - 1987

This bold piece, titled "Arizona", is a 1987 design by the acclaimed American designer Hilton McConnico (1943–2018) for the prestigious French glassmaker Daum Nancy. Known for his playful, imaginative style, McConnico brought a contemporary, surrealist touch to Daum's rich glassmaking tradition, making his collaborations highly collectible. This "Arizona" model, inspired by the desert landscapes of the American Southwest, features a striking combination of a clear crystal bowl perched on a sculptural turquoise pâte de verre base in the shape of a cactus. 

The piece exemplifies Daum’s mastery of the pâte de verre technique, a labor-intensive process in which powdered glass is cast into molds and fired to create a rich, textured surface. This technique produces a soft, matte translucency with subtle color gradients, giving the cactus base a vibrant yet natural appearance. The pâte de verre method requires exceptional skill and precision, which adds to the piece's value and desirability. The contrast between the clear crystal bowl and the earthy, textured cactus base enhances the visual impact, making it both a functional item and a striking work of art.

As a signed piece, this "Arizona" coupe is particularly prized by collectors of Daum glass and modern design. Limited-edition collaborations like this are highly sought after, as they showcase the innovative artistry that defines Daum Nancy and Hilton McConnico’s unique vision. McConnico’s interpretation of the cactus, with its bold yet organic form, captures the beauty of nature in a way that feels both timeless and modern. The "Arizona" coupe brings the rugged beauty and unique charm of the Southwest desert into any interior, making it a distinguished and valuable addition to any collection.