Turquoise Zanfirico Murano Glass Paperweight from Fratelli Toso, 1970

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Description

A vintage Murano glass paperweight by Fratelli Toso, dating to the 1970s. This colourful Italian art glass piece features an … Read more A vintage Murano glass paperweight by Fratelli Toso, dating to the 1970s. This colourful Italian art glass piece features an abstract arrangement of vibrant turquoise glass and delicate white zanfirico filigree, suspended within a substantial body of clear glass. The rounded spherical form contains an irregular scramble of turquoise glass, interspersed with fragments of finely worked white filigree canes. These decorative elements display a variety of intricate patterns, including twisted ribbons, overlapping threads and fine latticework. The zanfirico technique is a traditional Venetian glassmaking method in which slender threads of opaque glass are incorporated into canes and twisted to produce intricate linear patterns. Here, sections of these patterned canes are arranged among the turquoise glass, creating contrasting areas of dense colour and delicate openwork. The turquoise inclusions have a distinctive fragmented, almost stone-like appearance, with small irregular openings and variations in density that contribute to the paperweight's abstract composition. The outer layer of transparent glass magnifies the internal decoration, adding depth and optical interest. The paperweight is finished with a smoothly polished flat base, allowing it to stand securely. Very good vintage condition, with no chips or damage. One surface scratch and minor wear to the polished base.

Dimensions: Height 7 cm (2.76 in); Diameter 7.5 cm (2.95 in). This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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