Lot Essay
Fratelli Toso was known for its fine examples of murrine wares. The firm, founded in 1854, produced traditional Venetian chandeliers and blown glass pieces. In the late 19th Century, Fratelli Toso began producing very fine vetri murrine objects, including small vases and vessels. Additionally, the firm experimented in the production of lamps and chandeliers with elaborate murrine designs, featuring flowers and foliage as in the present example. To this day, these creations are considered an artistic tour de force in glass, with few having been produced and having survived in their entirety.
cf. Giovanni Sarpellon, Miniature Masterpieces, Mosaic Glass 1838-1924, 1995, pp. 165 and 166 for a discussion of Fratelli Toso, p. 167, fig. 1084 for an illustration of a table lamp, 1910-15, by Fratelli Toso, depicting assorted flowers and leaves.
cf. Giovanni Sarpellon, Miniature Masterpieces, Mosaic Glass 1838-1924, 1995, pp. 165 and 166 for a discussion of Fratelli Toso, p. 167, fig. 1084 for an illustration of a table lamp, 1910-15, by Fratelli Toso, depicting assorted flowers and leaves.