Large Red Sommerso Murano Glass Shell Bowl attributed to Alfredo Barbini, 1960s

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A large and highly sculptural Murano glass bowl by Alfredo Barbini, made in Italy during the 1960s. Formed as an … Read more A large and highly sculptural Murano glass bowl by Alfredo Barbini, made in Italy during the 1960s. Formed as an exaggerated conch shell, the piece combines deep ruby-red glass with clear glass in a dramatic sommerso construction, giving the colour considerable depth and luminosity. The substantial hand-worked body is defined by sweeping ribs that radiate through the shell, terminating in a tightly coiled spiral at one end. Around the opposite side, the glass has been pulled and folded into a broad, undulating fluted rim. Viewed from different angles, the piece shifts between functional bowl and abstract glass sculpture, with the clear outer casing accentuating the fluid movement of the red interior. At approximately 30 cm wide, this is a particularly large example by Barbini with the ruby red glass version seldom seen within his repertoire of shell bowls. Its scale and highly expressive modelling make it particularly effective as a centrepiece, sculptural bowl or large vide-poche, either in contemporary, eclectic or more traditional interior styles. Condition Good vintage condition consistent with age and use. No damage.

Some wear to the polished base and minor surface wear to the exterior, together with some firing/manufacturing irregularities within the glass. Partial original sticker remains to the underside. Dimensions Height: 13 cm Width: 30 cm Depth: 25 cm 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 See less