Vintage 1960s Murano Sommerso Amber Glass Basket Bowl by Alfredo Barbini (16cm)
A spectacular masterclass in mid-century Italian design, radiating architectural drama and rich, autumnal warmth.
Vintage 1960s Murano Sommerso Amber Art Glass Basket Bowl by Alfredo Barbini (16cm)
Hand-selected for its exceptional sculptural quality and striking presence, this vintage Sommerso art glass basket bowl is an authentic mid-century treasure from Murano, Venice. Attributed to the legendary glass maestro Alfredo Barbini, its dynamic, biomorphic silhouette features heavy glass ribbons that sweep upwards, curling into stylized, organic handle forms that echo the elegant posture of a bird in flight.
The vessel showcases the complex Sommerso (submerged) technique, encasing a deep, glowing amber and rich honey-gold core within a thick, brilliant layer of crystal-clear glass. The result is a breathtaking interplay of light and optical depth that shifts beautifully when viewed from different angles.
The interior base preserves the raw character of its hot-shop creation, displaying the subtle, authentic tool impressions left behind by the artisan’s metal jacks during the hand-blowing process. Entirely crack-free and boastfully heavy at 909g, this iconic piece brings a refined layer of retro sophistication and everyday glamour when styled as a coffee table centerpiece, a sunlit windowsill accent, or anchoring an entry console.
Designer / Origin: Attributed to Alfredo Barbini / Murano, Italy
Era: Vintage Circa 1950s–1960s
Technique: Hand-Blown Sommerso Art Glass
Colorway: Rich Amber & Honey Gold encased in Clear Crystal
Dimensions: H 16 cm × W 16 cm
Weight: 909 g
Condition: Pre-loved & Curated. Wonderful vintage condition with exceptional clarity and absolutely no chips, cracks, flea bites, or structural damage. The interior well and exterior underside exhibit a beautifully honest, light historic surface patina and faint use marks consistent with a 60+ year-old heritage design object.