Substantial midcentury Dartington crystal plaque for Winston Churchill's birth centenary, 1974. No 1164/5000

This substantial midcentury crystal plaque circa 1974 celebrates the birth centenary of Winston Churchill, Britain’s prime minister during WWII and one of the greatest historical figures of all time.

To commemorate the Churchill Centenary in 1974, Dartington Glass of London commissioned the distinguished Swedish sculptor and engraver, Rune Strand, to create an impressive piece for this unique occasion. Wrought by hand in crystal, only 5000 were ever made. Each was advertised as individually numbered and signed, this being number 1164 of 5000.

The crystal image was made for Dartington Glass by Hovmantorp in Sweden, depicting Churchill during the war years. The original price in 1974 was 15 guineas and prices have escalated considerably since.

A lovely piece executed with surpassing skill, the Churchill illustration is stunning both illuminated and under daylight.

All hand-made crystal items are still produced at Dartington Crystal in Torrington, meaning the factory is the only working hand-made tableware producing crystal factory left in the UK.

Price marked at $450 AUD.

Measurements: 14cm diameter, 3.cm thickness.

Excellent vintage condition, with minor imperfections around rim consistent with hand-wrought crystal.