This heavy-walled sommerso bowl exhibits a profound sculptural presence, characterized by a deep amethyst core suspended within a thick layer of clear, high-lead glass. The interior is defined by a rhythmic bullicante controlled bubble pattern, which captures and refracts light to create a sense of internal movement and depth. Its biomorphic, folded rim and substantial mass make it a compelling decorative anchor for any sophisticated surface.
Attribution & Period
Consistent with Archimede Seguso (Murano, Italy), 1950s
The execution of the bullicante technique, combined with the "pouch" or folded-rim organic form and the heavy sommerso casing, is highly characteristic of mid-century Venetian production. The quality of the controlled bubble distribution and the deep, saturated manganese-purple hue are stylistically aligned with the 1950s output of Rag. Aureliano Toso or Archimede Seguso, though no factory mark is observed.
Dimensions & Weight
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The glass remains vibrant with no chips, cracks, or internal bruising. Minor surface scratches are present on the underside of the base, consistent with age and shelf wear. A few microscopic inclusions are present from the original firing process, typical of hand-blown art glass.
Authenticity & Construction
This piece was hand-blown using the sommerso (submerged) technique, where a colored gather is dipped into molten clear glass. The internal pattern was achieved through the bullicante method, involving a metallic mold with spikes to create uniform indentations that trap air when cased. The base features a deeply concave, fire-polished pontil scar, which has been ground flat and edge-sanded, confirming its artisanal, non-industrial origin.
Placement
The density and saturated color of this bowl make it an ideal centerpiece for a minimalist travertine coffee table or a brightly lit étagère where the internal optics can be fully realized. It functions equally well as a sophisticated catchall on a mid-century executive desk or as a standalone sculptural object in a curated library.
STANDARD ATTRIBUTION & VALUE DISCLOSURE; This piece is described to the best of current scholarly and market knowledge. Any maker or regional attribution is based on visual analysis, materials, construction techniques, and documented stylistic comparisons. As with many MCM and antique design objects, definitive attribution may not be possible without original labels or factory records. Pricing reflects condition, quality, decorative appeal, and current collector demand rather than guaranteed maker identification.
This heavy-walled sommerso bowl exhibits a profound sculptural presence, characterized by a deep amethyst core suspended within a thick layer of clear, high-lead glass. The interior is defined by a rhythmic bullicante controlled bubble pattern, which captures and refracts light to create a sense of internal movement and depth. Its biomorphic, folded rim and substantial mass make it a compelling decorative anchor for any sophisticated surface.
Attribution & Period
Consistent with Archimede Seguso (Murano, Italy), 1950s
The execution of the bullicante technique, combined with the "pouch" or folded-rim organic form and the heavy sommerso casing, is highly characteristic of mid-century Venetian production. The quality of the controlled bubble distribution and the deep, saturated manganese-purple hue are stylistically aligned with the 1950s output of Rag. Aureliano Toso or Archimede Seguso, though no factory mark is observed.
Dimensions & Weight
Condition
Excellent vintage condition. The glass remains vibrant with no chips, cracks, or internal bruising. Minor surface scratches are present on the underside of the base, consistent with age and shelf wear. A few microscopic inclusions are present from the original firing process, typical of hand-blown art glass.
Authenticity & Construction
This piece was hand-blown using the sommerso (submerged) technique, where a colored gather is dipped into molten clear glass. The internal pattern was achieved through the bullicante method, involving a metallic mold with spikes to create uniform indentations that trap air when cased. The base features a deeply concave, fire-polished pontil scar, which has been ground flat and edge-sanded, confirming its artisanal, non-industrial origin.
Placement
The density and saturated color of this bowl make it an ideal centerpiece for a minimalist travertine coffee table or a brightly lit étagère where the internal optics can be fully realized. It functions equally well as a sophisticated catchall on a mid-century executive desk or as a standalone sculptural object in a curated library.
STANDARD ATTRIBUTION & VALUE DISCLOSURE; This piece is described to the best of current scholarly and market knowledge. Any maker or regional attribution is based on visual analysis, materials, construction techniques, and documented stylistic comparisons. As with many MCM and antique design objects, definitive attribution may not be possible without original labels or factory records. Pricing reflects condition, quality, decorative appeal, and current collector demand rather than guaranteed maker identification.
Image 1 of 15
Image 2 of 15
Image 3 of 15
Image 4 of 15
Image 5 of 15
Image 6 of 15
Image 7 of 15
Image 8 of 15
Image 9 of 15
Image 10 of 15
Image 11 of 15
Image 12 of 15
Image 13 of 15
Image 14 of 15
Image 15 of 15
