Masterworks 
25 May 2017
Masterworks 
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Carlo Scarpa

Rare Fenicio vase, model 5783

MVM Cappellin
Italy, c. 1928
iridized glass with festoons and applied lip 13¾ h × 6¾ dia in (35 × 17 cm)
estimate: $20,000–30,000
result: $25,000
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provenance: Collection of Dimitri Levas
literature: Carlo Scarpa: I Vetri di un Architetto, Barovier, ppg. 68-69, 195 illustrate technique Venetian Art Glass: An American Collection 1840-1970, Barovier, pg. 223 illustrates technique Vetri di Murano del '900: 50 Capolavori, IN.Arte Milano, pg. 155 illustrates form

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Ancient References

The Fenicio Series by Carlo Scarpa

The Fenicio series speaks to Carlo Scarpa’s interest in ancient Phonecian and Egyptian coreformed vessels, which are characterized by their ‘combed’ surface patterns. These are some of the first true vessels made of glass and date back almost 3500 years. Scarpa’s awareness and inclusion of such ancient references would play a major role in his work at both MVM Cappellin and Venini. 

Fenicio is one of Scarpa’s most beautiful, inventive and desirable series of his work for MVM Capellin.

This Fenico vase is exceptional for a number of reasons; the large scale is unusual to see, and the Soffiato technique (thinly blown transparent glass) is also unusual as most Fenicio vases were executed in Incamiciato (encased glass). Additionally, the festooning is beautifully rendered with consistently spaced upward strokes while the top third of the vase exhibits a fine layer of gold leaf. 


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