THE ITEM
These stunning Murano works of incredible opalescent glass set light refractions dancing within the glass. The glass is early Opaline glass, a technique that incorporated bone ash into the crafting process and is most evident in sunlight which shows off fiery orange and red hues. The six pieces featured here are a 'tobacciana' or a smoke set, typical to the popularity of the time to make a fashion statement through decorative personal or home decor accessories.
Today, it's much more likely to be a well-loved jewel in the crown of a well-cared for collection.
The set consists of:
3 Small segment ridged dishes
1 Large wide low dish
2 Lighters (1 gas, 1 lighter fluid)
The filigree decor style of the brass ormulu is in the High Style Design of the Eames Era with evident Art Nouveau influences. It is also similar to that of the French Bulle Savon glass (Bulle Savon literally translates to 'soap bubble' to imitate the sheen of iridescence of a soap bubble.), popular in the early 20th century.
CONDITION
There is no sign of use wear on any of the pieces; there is natural patina from antiquity on the brass, which could be polished up or kept for its charm if preferred and there is wear in line with age on the base of the larger glass dish.
All pieces except for the large dish have original labels;
Of the three small dishes; 2 have yellow Murano labels and 1 has red.
Of the lighters; both have red Murano labels,
MEASUREMENTS
Small segment dish: c. 1.5" / 4 cm in height x c. 2.6" / 6 cm in diameter
Large wide low dish: c. 2" / 5 cm in height x c. 4.8" / 12 cm in diameter
Lighters: c. 3.5" / 9 cm in height x c. 2.6" / 6 cm in diameter
Unpackaged weight (full set) c. 1.1 kg / 1,073 g
NOTES
Set will be securely packaged and shipping will be insured.
Shipping will be combined for multiple items.
A BIT OF HISTORY
Fratelli Toso was founded in 1854 by Pietro Toso and his six enterprising sons; Ferdinando, Carlo, Liberato, Angelo, Giovanni and Gregorio. The name 'Fratelli Toso' literally translates to 'Brothers Toso'.
Initially, glass production was mostly aimed at functional objects such as bottles and flasks for pharmaceutical and domestic use. But with the help of Vincenzo Zanetti (another great glass artist!) and with endless hours of work and practice, Pietro’s sons developed their skills and perfected their technique for hand made glass.
In the years to follow, the company withstood many trials and tribulations, from wars to harsh economic crises, the company would go on to survive to this day as the well known Antica Vetreria Fratelli Toso, carrying its 150 years of glassmaking expertise.
