Mid 20th Century Murano Sommerso Art Glass Bowl in Green, Teal and Amber

Details

Description

A substantial mid-century Murano art glass bowl with richly layered sommerso color in emerald green, blue-green/teal, amber and clear glass.

… Read more A substantial mid-century Murano art glass bowl with richly layered sommerso color in emerald green, blue-green/teal, amber and clear glass.

The unusually sculptural form combines a broad rounded upper body with a dramatically tapered lower profile and small polished foot. Viewed from above, the deep circular well reveals concentric layers of color; from the side, the darker amber and green bands appear suspended within the heavy clear glass. Two opposing polished flat sections further alter the optics of the piece, producing different color relationships as the bowl is turned.

The glass is exceptionally heavy for its size, weighing approximately 8 pounds, with the density and hand-finished construction associated with postwar Murano decorative glass. Its appearance changes considerably with the light—from deep jewel-toned green, teal and tobacco amber in normal illumination to vivid chartreuse and turquoise where light passes through the layers.

Unsigned and without a surviving label. We are confident in the Murano origin but have not assigned the bowl to a specific factory or designer; attribution is intentionally left open rather than relying on the frequently applied Flavio Poli or Seguso designations used for unmarked sommerso glass.

A substantial and highly architectural example of mid-century Italian art glass.
Dimensions: approximately 7.5" diameter × 5.5" H
Opening: approximately 5" diameter
Weight: approximately 8 lb

Condition

Very good vintage condition. Minor surface wear consistent with age and use, including light scratches, principally to polished surfaces/base, and a very small approximately 1 mm flea bite. No cracks or significant losses. Small bubbles and other irregularities within the glass are inherent to the handmade production. See less