Pair of Murano Glass Clowns
Glass sculpture, decorative art • Attributed to Murano glass workshops, potentially Seguso, Salviati, or more likely a commercial studio specializing in tourist export wares.
Style & Movement
Mid-Century Modern Italian Glass (Murano School), specializing in whimsical figurative art.
Medium & Technique
Hand-blown Sommerso and Millefiori glass techniques, involving layered colored glass, application of hot glass blobs for buttons and features, and hand-tooling.
Creation Period
Late 20th Century (circa 1960s-1980s)
Dimensions & Format
Small to medium figurines; larger approximately 10-12 inches, smaller approximately 7-9 inches. Vertical/Portrait format.
Subject Description
Two stylized clown figures with exaggerated features. The larger clown holds a secondary glass vessel (likely a bottle or instrument). Both feature green hats, red and yellow ruffled collars, large blue buttons, and white gloves and face-paint. The bodies are made of clear glass with internal multicolored ribbons.
Condition & Value Assessment
Condition Assessment
Very Good; the glass appears bright with no visible major fractures or chips in the primary photo.
Estimated Market Value
$100 - $250 USD for the pair
Auction Estimate
$80 - $150 USD
Provenance History
Likely purchased as part of the Italian export trade or as travel souvenirs. No visible labels or acid-etched signatures are apparent in the image.
Art Historical Significance
Represents the post-WWII boom of the Venetian glass industry. While mass-produced compared to masterworks, these figures reflect the technical skill of Murano artisans in creating complex, colorful glass figurines that defined 20th-century decorative collectibles.
Notable Features
Distinctive 'Sommerso' style body with multi-colored glass inclusions; hand-tooled facial expressions; high-gloss finish characteristic of lead or soda-lime Murano glass.
Condition Issues
Potential micro-scratches on the base from surface contact. Occasional internal bubbles (seeds) common in hand-blown glass. Check for chips on the delicate 'ruffles' and fingertips.
Conservation Recommendations
Keep away from high-traffic edges; clean with a soft, lint-free cloth and lukewarm water (avoid harsh chemicals). Display away from direct vibration to prevent toppling.