THE ITEM
This work of Murano Modernist art glass has been crafted using the unmistakable Sommerso technique and has been shaped into the form commonly known as the 'Love Knot'. The association of knots with the symbolism of love, friendship and affection dates back to antiquity.
The technique Sommerso (Literal translation 'submerged' in Italian) in Murano art glass features two or more layers of contrasting colours. These layers are first created before a final glass encasing is made, that is often a clear outer layer. The layers are created by dipping coloured glass into molten glass and then blowing the combination into a desired shape. Sommerso was developed in Murano during the late 1930s and glass artists such as Flavio Poli and Archimede Seguso were known for using this technique.
The contours to the form of this particular piece are beautifully balanced and an excellent canvas for light refraction. The colour palette bears a vibrant blue core that is cased in a layer of fuchsia before a final clear casing.
A BIT OF HISTORY
History's opinion differs on whether the Sommerso technique was invented and subsequently brought to fame by glass artist Archimede Seguso (b. 1909 - d, 1999) or Flavio Poli (b. 1900 - d.1984) in the 1930s. Both artists were leading figures who worked together at the leading glassworks Seguso Vetri d’Arte.
Sommerso [Literal translation from Italian: 'submerged'] is used to create layers of glass - often several layers and usually with different contrasting colours - inside a single object, giving the illusion of “immersed” colours without mixing. The different layers of glass is put through heat, repeatedly immersing them in pots of molten coloured glass before being encased in an outer later of colourless glass.
CONDITION
Very Good. There is mild use wear primarily in the form of movement marks on the underside of the base and a single 2 mm 'fleabite' that is commensurable with the age of the piece - please refer to photos as part of the condition report.
MEASUREMENTS
c. 14.3" / 36.3 cm tall (from base to rim) x c. 6" / 15.2 cm in width (across body's widest point). Base: c. 3.1" / 8 cm squared.
Unpackaged weight: 1.6 kg / 1,641 g
NOTES
Sculpture will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured. Shipping will be combined for multiple items.