James Houston Figurative Sculptures

Steuben Glass & 18K Gold “Trout & Fly” by James Houston, Introduced 1966 American, Steuben Glass Works, Corning, New York Crystal and 18k Gold • Signed • H. 8 in. × W. 6.5 in. × D. 2 in. A masterwork of American glass artistry, this signed Steuben crystal sculpture, “Trout & Fly,” was designed by James Houston and first introduced in 1966. Houston, one of Steuben’s most celebrated designers, was widely known for his wildlife studies in glass, many inspired by his time in the Canadian Arctic and his reverence for the natural world. The sculpture depicts a trout captured in a moment of suspended motion, arcing upward from stylized swirling water in pursuit of an exquisitely detailed 18k gold mayfly. The insect, mounted on a fine wire stem, hovers delicately at the fish’s open mouth, completing the narrative of predator and prey. Techniques & Materials Steuben Crystal: Hand-blown, optically pure crystal, polished to a flawless surface. Steuben’s proprietary formula, developed in the early 20th century, is distinguished by its extraordinary clarity and brilliance. Controlled Bubble Inclusions: The fish’s body is decorated with perfectly placed air bubbles, achieved through expert manipulation of molten glass. These bubbles evoke the shimmer of scales and the sparkle of water. Cold-Polished Detailing: Fin edges, mouth, and wave-like base are sharply defined through precise polishing, heightening the sense of motion. 18k Gold Mayfly: The hand-wrought gold insect is finely chased to suggest delicate wings and naturalistic form, providing a striking contrast to the crystal’s transparency. Designer: James Houston (1921–2005) Houston joined Steuben in 1952 and became one of its leading designers, bringing a lyrical naturalism to the company’s repertoire. His works—including Arctic wildlife, fish, and avian studies—are considered icons of mid-20th-century American glass design. The “Trout & Fly” exemplifies Houston’s hallmark blend of simplicity, symbolism, and technical virtuosity. Introduced in 1966 (Steuben design no. 1002-ST). This example bears the engraved Steuben signature at the base. The composition celebrates the vitality of nature and the drama of survival. The trout, emblematic of strength and perseverance, leaps toward a fleeting mayfly—an insect long associated with the fragility and transience of life. Together, they capture a timeless moment of balance in the natural cycle. Steuben crystal animal...