Italian Sterling Silver and Hand-Blown Crystal Duck Carafe by Macini Carlo, Florence, 1971

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Description

A highly unusual and beautifully executed Italian sterling silver and hand-blown crystal duck carafe, attributed to Macini Carlo of Florence, … Read more A highly unusual and beautifully executed Italian sterling silver and hand-blown crystal duck carafe, attributed to Macini Carlo of Florence, dating to approximately 1971.

This exceptional piece combines a sculptural duck-shaped crystal carafe with a substantial, heavy-gauge 925 sterling silver holder, richly decorated with an elegant scrolling grapevine motif. The juxtaposition of crystal and solid silver gives the piece a distinctly Italian character, balancing playful figural design with sophisticated craftsmanship. The clear hand-blown glass allows the contents to remain visible, while the sculptural duck form transforms what would otherwise be an ordinary drinks vessel into a striking piece of functional art. The silver holder is particularly impressive for its weight and workmanship. The grapevine decoration is beautifully modelled across the silver framework, referencing the traditional association between wine, vines and Italian decorative arts. The carafe has an unusual additional feature: it can be displayed in two positions. It may stand upright in the conventional manner or be positioned horizontally within its silver support, as illustrated in the photographs. This clever design adds both visual interest and versatility. The silver is appropriately marked 925, confirming the high-grade sterling silver content, with the Italian maker's hallmarks visible to the underside. with its combination of hand-blown crystal, sculptural form and solid Italian silver, this is an especially decorative object for a sophisticated bar, dining room, library or collection of Italian design. Please note: the separate grapevine glass tray shown in some photographs is NOT included in the sale.

Height: 17.8 cm (7 in.) Length: 25.4 cm (10 in.) Width: 12.7 cm (5 in.) Weight: approximately 1.2 kg Capacity: approximately 70 cl Condition Excellent / near-mint condition. The carafe appears exceptionally well preserved, with no chips, cracks, repairs or significant signs of use noted. The crystal remains clear and the silver decoration is beautifully preserved See less