Glass Large Sconces by Toni Zuccheri for La Murrina, 1970s, Set of 3

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An extraordinary and exceptionally rare set of three monumental wall sconces designed by Toni Zuccheri and produced by La Murrina … Read more An extraordinary and exceptionally rare set of three monumental wall sconces designed by Toni Zuccheri and produced by La Murrina in Murano, Italy, during the 1970s. These remarkable fixtures perfectly embody Zuccheri’s experimental approach to glass, in which traditional Murano craftsmanship was transformed into an organic, almost primordial form of sculpture. Each sconce is dominated by a large, exceptionally thick hand-worked Murano glass diffuser with an irregular oval silhouette. A dramatic lateral opening interrupts the rounded body, creating a fluid profile reminiscent of a shell, a seed pod, a lunar crescent or an imaginary marine organism. The asymmetrical shape gives each piece a powerful sculptural presence and allows the glass to appear different from every viewing angle. The transparent glass is animated by a dense concentration of controlled bubbles and smoky bronze-to-black inclusions. These inclusions gather around the central light source before dissolving outward in irregular, feathery constellations, producing an extraordinary sense of movement and depth. Larger air bubbles are suspended among thousands of minute inclusions, while the hand-modelled surfaces display folds, ripples and subtle variations in thickness characteristic of artisanal Murano production. The three diffusers are supported by understated period brass structures. Narrow vertical backplates remain visible through the transparent glass as warm golden lines, while small spherical brass finials discreetly secure each diffuser at the upper and lower edges. The rigorous simplicity of the metalwork allows the expressive glass to remain the absolute focus of the composition. When switched off, the sconces appear as imposing works of abstract glass sculpture, their dark inclusions floating within the transparent mass like ink dispersed in water or mineral formations captured in crystal. When illuminated, however, they become truly spectacular. The light penetrates the thick glass, igniting the smoky inclusions with amber and golden reflections. The irregular edges, bubbles and sculpted surfaces refract the light outward, projecting a dramatic halo of radiating shadows and shimmering reflections across the surrounding wall. The result is atmospheric and almost theatrical: each sconce creates its own luminous landscape, while the three together form a majestic architectural installation. Their generous dimensions make them especially striking when arranged as a triptych above a console, along an important hallway or staircase, or as a sculptural composition in a large living space. They could equally be positioned separately throughout an interior while maintaining a visual dialogue between rooms. Toni Zuccheri was among the most innovative figures in postwar Murano glass. His work is celebrated for its experimental surfaces, organic inspiration and fascination with the natural and animal worlds. This rare triptych is an exceptional expression of that artistic vocabulary, positioned between functional lighting and collectible glass sculpture. Dimensions per sconce: Overall height: 40 cm / 15.75 in Overall width: 35 cm / 13.78 in Overall depth: 20 cm / 7.87 in Excellent vintage condition. All three hand-worked Murano glass diffusers are intact, with no chips, cracks or other damage to report. Bubbles, inclusions, irregular contours and slight variations among the three pieces are intrinsic characteristics of their artisanal production and make each diffuser unique. The period brass structures retain their naturally developed patina and light wear consistent with age. The sconces retain their original wiring. Professional rewiring for use in the United States is available upon request. Sold exclusively as a set of three. We recommend professional rewiring for safe operation and compliance with contemporary local electrical standards. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



issues arising from misattribution,
Up to 250V (Europe/UK Standard).The wiring of this item may be original and might need replacement, if not specified otherwise. See less