Sommerso Oval Slant-Cut Vase
Decorative Art, Glassware • Attributed to Mandruzzato or Seguso Vetri d'Arte (Murano, Italy)
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern, Italian Modernism
Medium & Technique
Murano glass; Sommerso technique (submerged glass), hand-blown and cold-cut with a polished finish
Creation Period
Mid-20th Century, circa 1950-1970
Dimensions & Format
Approximately 8-10 inches in height; Vertical orientation with an asymmetrical slanted rim
Subject Description
An abstract, functional vessel featuring a deep cobalt blue core encased in thick, clear flint glass. The form is an elongated ovoid with a distinctive sharp diagonal (slant) cut at the rim, emphasizing geometric clarity and the refractive properties of thick glass.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; appears to have high clarity with minimal surface scratching
Estimated Market Value
$250 - $450
Auction Estimate
$150 - $300
Provenance History
Likely sourced from a private estate or specialized Mid-Century design dealer; indicative of high-end Venetian exports from the post-war period
Art Historical Significance
A quintessential example of the Sommerso technique popularized in the 1950s. It represents the post-war revival of Murano glassmaking where traditional craftsmanship met modern, minimalist aesthetics, influencing global interior design.
Notable Features
Distinctive slant-cut rim which is more rare than standard flat rims; the 'lens' effect created by the thick clear base which distorts the interior blue core beautifully.
Condition Issues
Possible minor shelf wear (base scratches) and tiny flea bites around the sharp edges of the slanted rim, though none are prominently visible
Conservation Recommendations
Clean only with lukewarm water and mild soap; avoid abrasive chemicals. Display away from edges to prevent tipping and keep in a stable climate to avoid thermal shock.