Masterworks 
25 May 2017
Masterworks 
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Archimede Seguso

A Festoni Biennale vase

Vetreria Archimede Seguso
Italy, 1954
internally decorated glass 14½ h × 9¾ w × 4 d in (37 × 25 × 10 cm)
estimate: $30,000–50,000
result: $42,500
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Incised signature and date to underside: [Seguso Archimede Biennale 1954].
provenance: Important Private Collection
exhibited: XXVII Biennale, 1954, Venice
literature: Art Glass by Archimede Seguso, Franzoi, ppg. 50, 83 illustrate model Art Glass from Murano: 1910-1970, Heiremans, pg. 136 illustrates model Murano Glas 1945-1970, Heiremans, pg. 110 illustrates similar example Glass 1959, The Corning Museum of Glass, pg. 231 illustrates model

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This particular Festoni vase holds a special significance as it was shown in the Biennale of 1954 and is signed as such. Form and technique are perfectly harmonized here—the looping ropes of cane that form the body distort the perception of symmetry while visually enhancing the elongated teardrop shape. The degree of ability and experience necessary to achieve a piece of blown glass at this level is exemplary. 

Exhibited at the Biennale of 1954, form and technique are perfectly harmonized in this exquisite work.

Archimede Seguso’s mastery of blown glass included the execution of difficult ancient techniques altered to suit his own purposes, as well as techniques of his own invention; amazingly, these extremes were often combined in a single piece. Working in this manner, Seguso distinguished himself as a master who existed at his own, incomparable level. 

This Festoni vase stands as a worthy example of Archimede Seguso’s ultimate accomplishment as a glassblower and designer—a degree of mastery that continues to inspire glassblowers, connoisseurs, collectors and the public at large.

This model illustrated in a period photo from the Glass 1959 exhibition at The Corning Museum of Glass

Masterworks of Archimede Seguso

Selected from an important private collection, this work is among a group of vessels created by designer and master blower Archimede Seguso and representing some of his most significant work from the 1950s. 

While major auctions of Italian Glass usually include one or two examples of Seguso’s work, this is the first time a diverse and truly impressive group of masterworks are being presented in one sale. To that end, this is a rare opportunity to view a cross-section of Seguso’s best work executed at the height of his powers. It is our hope that in the present context, the depth and power of this historically significant material can be better understood and appreciated.

Archimede Seguso 1909–1999

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During his long life Archimede Seguso worked in many of Murano’s most important glasshouses, but he would ultimately become famous for establishing and operating his own.

At a young age Seguso became an apprentice at the Vetreria Artistica Barovier where his father was a partner. In 1933 he became a founding member and principal master blower of the Barovier Seguso Ferro firm, which would become Seguso Vetri d’Arte in 1937. Here he collaborated extensively with the young designer Flavio Poli and earned a reputation as one of the greatest master blowers on the island.

In 1946 he established his own workshop, Veteria Archimede Seguso, where he served as both designer and master blower, personally executing almost every piece produced there for more than 40 years. During this time he developed many innovative glass designs that employed complex ancient techniques, such as Filigrana and successfully re-imagined them to suit post-war tastes.

Auction Results Archimede Seguso

Archimede Seguso

A Piume vase

estimate: $35,000–45,000

result: $106,250

Archimede Seguso

Zig Zag vase

estimate: $50,000–70,000

result: $81,250

Archimede Seguso

Merletto vase

estimate: $30,000–50,000

result: $57,500

Archimede Seguso

Merletto bowl

estimate: $9,000–12,000

result: $52,500

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