This is a stunning 1983 studio art glass paperweight from the famous Glass Eye Studio in Seattle. It is hand-signed "MSH 83" on the base.
The "MSH" signature carries a dual meaning: it identifies the artist, Mike Shaw, and commemorates the use of Mount St. Helens volcanic ash in the glass melt. This piece features a beautiful iridescent "oil spot" finish with deep blue and purple swirls.
Artist Mike Shaw was a master glassblower who refined his skills at the renowned Orient & Flume studio before becoming the lead blower at Glass Eye Studio. He is famously credited with pioneering the use of Mount St. Helens volcanic ash in art glass, blending his California studio training with Pacific Northwest innovation. Mike Shaw used the "MSH" signature almost exclusively during his time at Glass Eye Studio (GES) in the early 1980s. Glows under black light.
Condition: Excellent vintage condition. No chips or cracks.
Item Specifics: Artist: Mike Shaw Studio: Glass Eye Studio (GES) Material: Volcanic Ash Glass (Mt. St. Helens) Year: 1983 Features: Signed MSH, Dated '83
