Davide Fuin Murano Glass ‘Silver Leaf’ Gilt Square Bowl
Hollowware (Nut Bowl / Trinket Dish) · Attributed to or in the style of Davide Fuin (Murano, Italy). While the exterior mimics sterling, the core is artisan glass; Fuin is world-renowned for recreating classical metalwork forms in glass using ancient Venetian techniques.
Pattern: Modernist Gilt Glass Collection
Type
Hollowware (Nut Bowl / Trinket Dish)
Maker
Attributed to or in the style of Davide Fuin (Murano, Italy). While the exterior mimics sterling, the core is artisan glass; Fuin is world-renowned for recreating classical metalwork forms in glass using ancient Venetian techniques.
Material
Hand-blown glass with inner metallic leafing. The 'silver' appearance is achieved by trapping genuine silver leaf or silver-toned foil between layers of hot glass (sommerso technique), often backed with a turquoise/teal vitreous pigment.
Dimensions
Estimated 4-5 inches (10-12 cm) square width; approximately 2 inches (5 cm) height. Weight is significantly lighter than solid silver but heavier than mass-produced glass.
Description
This striking object is a testament to Venetian glass artistry, designed to evoke the appearance of a silver vessel with a vibrant enamel lining. The rounded square form is exceptionally balanced, featuring a metallic leaf interior that catches the light through a rich turquoise glaze, creating a shimmering, underwater effect.
Key Features
Silver-leaf 'scavo' effect on the rim; pearlescent teal interior with distinct circular movement marks from the glass-blowing rotation; smooth, thick-walled construction.
Material & Composition
Hand-blown glass with inner metallic leafing. The 'silver' appearance is achieved by trapping genuine silver leaf or silver-toned foil between layers of hot glass (sommerso technique), often backed with a turquoise/teal vitreous pigment.
Finish & Decoration
Textured 'scavo' or iridescent exterior finish. The interior features a swirl-motif enamel or metallic leaf texture beneath a translucent teal glaze. The shape is a rounded 'soft square' typical of Mid-Century and Contemporary Venetian glass.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually lacks traditional metal hallmarks like '925'. Authentic pieces may have a diamond-point etched signature 'Davide Fuin' on the base, a 'Murano' sticker, or be entirely unmarked as is common with studio glass.
Construction Details
Hand-blown and hand-formed. The glass was manipulated while molten to create the square profile. The metallic interior involves 'foglia d'argento' (silver leaf) applied during the blowing process.
Functional Features
Non-reactive glass interior suitable for salts, nuts, or as a valet tray. Heat-sensitive; not for use with hot liquids or as an ashtray due to risk of thermal shock cracking.
Handle & Grip Details
N/A - Rimmed bowl design.
Craftsmanship Details
Highly skilled hand-tooling evident in the symmetry of the soft corners. The 'silvering' is evenly distributed except where damaged, showing mastery of the fuso (molten) leafing technique.
Authentication Indicators
The 'flaking' on the right side confirms it is glass/enamel layered over a base, rather than solid metal. Lack of metal tarnish (sulfidation) in a 'pitted' pattern also points to glass material.
Origin & Manufacturing
Murano, Italy. Crafted in one of the boutique furnaces (fornaci) known for high-end 'a mano' (by hand) glasswork.
Era & Period
Contemporary / late 20th Century (c. 1980-Present). Inspired by the Mid-Century Modern Venetian revival of 'Vetro Metallic' techniques popularized in the 1950s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990 - 2010. The specific teal pigment and metallic swirling are indicative of late 20th-century artisan glass trends.
Cultural Significance
Represents the ongoing dialogue between silversmithing and glassmaking. Murano glassmakers often imitated precious metals to provide luxury goods for the European elite when silver was too costly or restricted by sumptuary laws.
Condition Notes
Fair to Poor. Significant damage is visible on the right interior wall where the top layers of glass/enamel have flaked or chipped away (spalling). Surface scratches on the rim suggest heavy use as a trinket dish. Grade: Fair.
Value Estimate
$50 - $150 (Significant value reduction due to the large chip/delamination on the interior; a mint specimen by a known master could fetch $400+).
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash with lukewarm water and mild soap only. Do not use silver polish or abrasive sponges, as this will destroy the glass surface and peel the delicate leafing.
Similar Pieces
Barovier & Toso 'Cordonato D'Oro' (usually gold leaf), Venini 'Bollicine' series, or genuine sterling silver 'Art Deco' nut bowls which would be much heavier and prone to black tarnish.
Interesting Facts
Davide Fuin began his career as an assistant to legendary masters and is now considered the 'Cellini of Glass' because he can replicate the most complex metal chalices and bowls using only fire and glass.