Murano Art Glass of the Pre-War Period
The art glass made on the island of Murano from the turn of the century to the Second World War was varied, inventive and complex. Dozens of manufacturers made an astonishing array of objects in numerous styles and materials. All of the glass from this period does however have something in common: a unified essence, a marriage of modernist aesthetics and traditional Murano craftsmanship.
In the Primavera Collection we are presented with a very particular selection of pre-war objects: from exceptionally rare pieces by Barovier and Venini to highly accomplished masterworks from lesser known companies. As we navigate through the collection what defines the experience is exquisite taste with an eye towards quality and rarity rather than pedigree alone.
Ercole Barovier 1889–1974
The nearly fifty year tenure of Ercole Barovier as artistic director, designer and owner of Barovier & Toso is unprecedented in the history of Murano glass, and the firm’s success stands as a testament to his singular artistic talent and entrepreneurial genius.
Born in 1889 to a Muranese family that could trace its origins back to the 13th century, Barovier did not train as a glassblower but had a great passion for glass and quickly distinguished himself as an innovative designer. He joined Artisti Barovier in 1919 at the age of thirty and found success designing vases in the mosaic technique. In 1930 he produced the critically acclaimed and award-winning Primavera series, the success of which encouraged him to continue his experiments.
Auction Results Ercole Barovier
