Leaping Blue Dolphin
Decorative Glass Sculpture • Likely Murano School or a high-volume studio like Sommerso glassmakers
Style & Movement
Contemporary Decor / Murano Style Art Glass
Medium & Technique
Hand-blown and pulled art glass with internal swirling pigments
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1980-2000)
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 6-8 inches in length; free-standing sculptural format
Subject Description
A stylized representation of a dolphin in a leaping or arched pose. The body features a gradient of cobalt and azure blue with internal 'sommerso' style white swirls, encased in clear transparent glass. The fins and tail are pulled from the clear casing.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Good to Very Good; visible light scratching on the base consistent with surface contact and display.
Estimated Market Value
$30 - $75 USD
Auction Estimate
$20 - $50 USD
Provenance History
Unknown; likely a retail purchase from a gift store or art glass gallery. No visible labels or etched signatures in provided view.
Art Historical Significance
Representative of the late 20th-century mass-market glass movement influenced by Venetian Murano techniques. While aesthetically pleasing, it is a decorative object rather than a unique fine art piece within a specific artist's oeuvre.
Notable Features
Vibrant internal swirling patterns and the use of the 'sommerso' (submerged) technique where colors are layered within clear glass.
Condition Issues
Minor surface abrasions on the underbelly/base area; small internal air bubbles (seeds) typical of the hand-blowing process; no visible chips or cracks.
Conservation Recommendations
Clean with a soft, lint-free cloth and mild soap if necessary. Avoid abrasive cleaners. Display out of direct high-temperature zones to prevent thermal shock, though glass is generally stable.