Mezzo Diamante Lattimo Aurato Brass Sconces by Carlo Scarpa for Venini, 1940s, Set of 2

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An exceptionally rare pair of “Mezzo Diamante” wall sconces designed by Carlo Scarpa for Venini during the 1940s, distinguished by … Read more An exceptionally rare pair of “Mezzo Diamante” wall sconces designed by Carlo Scarpa for Venini during the 1940s, distinguished by their proportions and exquisite combination of lattimo aurato Murano glass, gold leaf and deeply patinated brass. This particular version is especially notable for its substantial all-brass mounting structure, rather than the ribbed white-glass support found on other known examples of the same model. At the time, Venini could adapt its lighting designs to individual commissions, offering clients different mounting options and material combinations. These variations allowed the same glass model to acquire a distinct architectural character according to the interior for which it was intended. Each sconce features a large, individually hand-blown bowl executed in softly luminous lattimo glass and enriched with delicate gold-leaf inclusions. Its generous rounded form tapers gently toward the base before opening into a broad, subtly irregular upper rim. The surface is animated by Venini’s refined “mezzo diamante” treatment: a continuous sequence of pronounced diagonal ribs spiralling around the glass. The regular rhythm of these raised bands gives the otherwise restrained form a remarkable sense of movement and transforms the diffuser as the light changes throughout the day. The gold appears as an extraordinarily fine and irregular dusting suspended within the glass. In some areas, it resembles a delicate metallic mist; in others, the gold gathers into more concentrated traces that follow the spiral movement of the molten glass. The effect changes continuously according to the viewing angle, becoming increasingly visible as light travels across the raised diagonal pattern. When illuminated, the lattimo glass transforms the light into a warm, enveloping glow. The gold-leaf particles shimmer discreetly across the surface, while the pronounced spiral ribs create alternating areas of brightness and shadow. The open upper rim also directs a soft pool of light toward the wall and ceiling, producing an atmospheric halo around each fixture. When switched off, the sconces remain highly decorative objects. The luminous white glass, finely dispersed gold leaf and strong architectural brass mounts create an exceptionally sophisticated contrast between transparency, texture and material weight. Each glass diffuser was individually formed and finished by hand by a Murano master glassmaker. The pair therefore displays subtle differences in shape, proportions, rim profile, thickness and gold-leaf distribution. These slight variations are not imperfections, but tangible evidence of the traditional artisanal production process and ensure that each diffuser is unique. The most distinctive feature of this version is the substantial period brass mounting. Each glass bowl rests upon a long cantilevered arm composed of a series of stepped horizontal brass bands with softly rounded ends. The layered construction echoes the spiral rhythm of the glass while giving the sconces a powerful late Art Deco architectural presence. The restrained geometry of the rectangular wall plates and projecting arms provides a striking counterpoint to the softly curved diffusers. The mounts retain a magnificent, ly developed patina, with deep brown, almost blackened areas alternating with warmer golden highlights along the raised edges. This rich surface has been carefully preserved rather than excessively polished, maintaining the authentic character accumulated over more than seventy years. The combination of the strongly ribbed brass mounts and the spiralling “mezzo diamante” glass creates a particularly harmonious dialogue. Dimensions per sconce Diameter: 17 cm / 6.69 in Overall depth: 24.5 cm / 9.65 in Overall height: 22.5 cm / 8.86 in Backplate: 11.8 × 5 cm / 4.65 × 1.97 in The sconces have been professionally rewired for use in the United States and fitted with E26 sockets. Installation and inspection by a qualified electrician are always recommended to ensure safe operation and compliance with 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