Lattimo Incamiciato Gold Leaf Sconces by Tomaso Buzzi for Venini, 1930s, Set of 2

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An exceptional and extraordinarily rare pair of wall sconces designed by tomaso buzzi for venini, murano, circa 1932–1934. Museum-quality examples … Read more An exceptional and extraordinarily rare pair of wall sconces designed by tomaso buzzi for venini, murano, circa 1932–1934. Museum-quality examples of italian decorative lighting, these remarkable sconces combine buzzi’s refined architectural vision with the exceptional technical virtuosity of venini’s historic murano glassworks. Each sconce is dominated by a tall, hand-blown diffuser distinguished by its elegant vertical proportions. The glass rises from a narrow rounded base, measuring approximately 4 cm in diameter at the opening where it meets the brass support. The lower body expands to approximately 8 cm before gradually widening toward the softly flared upper rim, which reaches a diameter of approximately 13 cm. This carefully balanced progression gives the diffusers an extraordinarily graceful silhouette, reminiscent of a classical chalice, a ceremonial torch or an elongated flower in bloom. Their slender, upward movement lends the pair a distinctly architectural presence while preserving a remarkable sense of visual lightness. The diffusers are executed using venini’s sophisticated lattimo incamiciato technique. A luminous layer of opaque white lattimo glass is enclosed within a transparent outer casing and enriched with countless minute inclusions of genuine gold leaf. The gold is distributed organically throughout the glass. In certain areas it appears as a delicate, almost imperceptible mist, while elsewhere it gathers into more concentrated linear passages and subtle horizontal traces. These irregular patterns were created as the gold leaf fragmented, stretched and moved through the molten glass during the blowing process. Each diffuser was individually blown and shaped by hand. Slight differences in profile, rim, gold-leaf distribution, bubbles and internal inclusions are therefore characteristics of the traditional murano production process. These variations are evidence of the work of the master glassmaker and ensure that no two pieces are ever precisely identical. When illuminated, the white lattimo layer becomes warm and softly radiant. Light travels upward through the elongated glass bodies, while the gold inclusions emerge gradually as delicate points and trails of reflection. The open upper rims also project a gentle pool of light above each fixture, creating an atmospheric halo on the surrounding wall. When switched off, the sconces remain highly decorative objects. The finely dispersed gold becomes more restrained beneath the smooth transparent casing, while the slender proportions and softly modelled contours reveal the sophisticated craftsmanship of the glass.rectangular wall plates extend into substantial square-section cantilevered arms measuring approximately 4 × 4 cm. The arms terminate in sharply faceted, gently sloping fronts that discreetly support the glass from below. The restrained geometry of the mounts provides a striking counterpoint to the elongated curves of the diffusers. Their surfaces retain a magnificent ly developed patina, with deep golden-brown, olive and subtly variegated tones. The brass has been intentionally preserved without aggressive polishing, allowing its rich oxidation, tonal depth and historical character to remain fully visible. The rectangular backplates measure approximately 5.5 × 7 cm. The rear mounting plate can be removed by unscrewing the two visible screws, allowing the attachment hardware to be concealed within the wall junction box for a cleaner installation. With their elegant proportions, exceptional glass technique and remarkable rarity, these sconces transcend their practical function and should be considered important works of twentieth-century decorative art. They would be particularly effective installed symmetrically beside an important doorway, mirror, fireplace or architectural opening. The sconces have already been professionally rewired specifically for use in the united states and are fitted with one standard edison e26 socket each. Installation by a qualified electrician is always recommended and should be carried out in accordance with local electrical regulations. Dimensions per sconce: - overall height: 36.5 cm / 14.37 in - maximum glass diameter: 13 cm / 5.12 in - overall depth: 17 cm / 6.69 in - glass diameter at base opening: approximately 4 cm / 1.57 in - lower glass diameter: approximately 8 cm / 3.15 in - backplate: 5.5 × 7 cm / 2.17 × 2.76 in - square-section brass arm: 4 × 4 cm / 1.57 × 1.57 in 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