Davide Fuin Mid-Century Style Murano Glass Bowl with Silver Rim
Decorative Object / Hollowware Bowl · Unknown workshop, likely Mid-Century Muranese (Italy) or Scandinavian influence. While the glasswork mimics high-end makers like Venini, the silver mounting suggests a specialized silversmith boutique.
Pattern: Modernist Guilloché Glass Series
Type
Decorative Object / Hollowware Bowl
Maker
Unknown workshop, likely Mid-Century Muranese (Italy) or Scandinavian influence. While the glasswork mimics high-end makers like Venini, the silver mounting suggests a specialized silversmith boutique.
Material
Vitreous glass with translucent enamel interior over a silver-toned metal base. The rim appears to be Sterling Silver (0.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (EPNS).
Dimensions
Estimated 12cm x 12cm (approximately 4.7 inches). Estimated silver weight (rim only) is 15-25 grams; total weight approximately 250-400 grams including glass.
Description
An elegant square-form decorative bowl featuring a vibrant turquoise translucent finish over a textured base, rimmed in luminous silver. The interior displays a rhythmic, wavelike pattern typical of engine-turned metalwork, creating a shimmering optical effect known as guilloché. This piece represents the intersection of luxury metalwork and art glass.
Key Features
Optical guilloché pattern under enamel, vibrant turquoise hue, contrasting silver rim, and 'squircle' (square-circle) geometric profile.
Material & Composition
Vitreous glass with translucent enamel interior over a silver-toned metal base. The rim appears to be Sterling Silver (0.925) or high-grade Silver Plate (EPNS).
Finish & Decoration
Guilloché-style engine-turned pattern visible through turquoise translucent enamel. The exterior and rim feature a satin brushed silver finish with minimal ornamentation.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually found on the underside of the silver rim or on a small metal plaque on the base. Likely stamps include '925', 'Sterling', or a small manufacturer's cartouche common in Italy/Norway.
Construction Details
Spun/pressed glass body with a mechanically applied silver rim. The rim is likely press-fitted or adhered with a jeweler's resin.
Functional Features
Decorative accent bowl; features a reinforced rim to prevent glass chipping. Large surface area for visibility of the internal pattern.
Handle & Grip Details
None; handle-less bowl design intended for static display or light nut/candy service.
Craftsmanship Details
Machine-pressed glass with hand-applied enamel and a machine-rolled silver rim. The finish shows good symmetry despite the structural damage.
Authentication Indicators
The depth of the texture under the enamel is consistent with period production. The wear on the silver rim is consistent with age. However, the visible crack significantly impacts structural authentication and value.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely Murano, Italy or Oslo, Norway. These regions specialized in the combination of brightly colored glass/enamel and silver mounting during the mid-20th century.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern (1950s-1970s). The use of vibrant translucent enamel over texture is a hallmark of Scandinavian Enamel and late Art Deco-cum-Modernism.
Age Estimate
Circa 1960-1975 based on the turquoise color palette and the simplified geometric square-round form.
Cultural Significance
Represents the post-war shift toward 'Joy in Design,' where functional household objects were infused with bold colors and high-quality materials to reflect prosperity and modern taste.
Condition Notes
Fair to Good. Visible vertical hairline crack in the glass at the 11 o'clock position. The silver rim shows light tarnish and some wear to the internal sealant. Grade: Fair/Damaged.
Value Estimate
$40 - $75 USD in current condition. If pristine and hallmarked by a known maker, value would range from $250 - $450 USD.
Care & Maintenance
Do not submerge in water; clean only with a damp soft cloth. Polish the silver rim with a specialized silver cloth, avoiding contact with the enamel to prevent scratching. Keep out of direct sunlight to prevent enamel fading.
Similar Pieces
David-Andersen (Norway) enamel bowls, Tostrup enamelware, or Venini silver-mounted glass. Norwegian pieces often have more intricate silver patterns, while Italian pieces focus on glass color.
Interesting Facts
The 'guilloché' technique used here was famously perfected by Peter Carl Fabergé but was adapted into affordable glassware during the mid-century to satisfy the growing middle-class demand for luxury aesthetics.