Italian Neoclassical Black Opaline Glass Vase With Gilt-Metal Mount

Details

Description

A baluster form vase in deep black opaline glass, likely French or Italian (Murano attribution plausible) and dating to the … Read more A baluster form vase in deep black opaline glass, likely French or Italian (Murano attribution plausible) and dating to the mid-20th century, conceived in a refined neoclassical silhouette reminiscent of 19th-century Empire and Restoration decorative language but executed with the cleaner, heavier geometry characteristic of later studio production. The body rises in a gently swelling baluster profile, the surface highly polished to a mirrored sheen, the lip finished with a flat gilt-metal band that creates a crisp architectural termination at the opening. The base, in cast matte-gilt metal, features a wide spreading socle with fine reeded detailing encircling the shaft, the shaping borrowing from classical marble tazzas and ormolu mounted opaline examples of earlier date.

The contrast between the dense, light-absorbing black glass and the radiating metallic foot gives the piece both sculptural impact and a sense of formal weight, suggesting its intended function as a centerpiece object rather than purely utilitarian vessel. While the form recalls Baccarat and Saint-Louis opaline production of the 19th century, the scale, finish, and mount execution point comfortably toward mid-century French or Murano manufacture where revival classicism was translated into bold monochrome color fields and simplified ornament.

Measures
12" h x 8.25" w See less