Tessere Policrome
(Photograph reproduced from Ercole Barovier 1888-1974: Vetraio Muranese by Attilia Dorigato, 1989, Marsilio Editori)
Both eccentric and highly refined, the vibrant colors, complex patterning and one-off rarity of the tessere policrome make them distinctive artistic statements by a master designer at the height of his powers. This spherical vase along with the vessel and shallow plate pictured above are the only known examples of this model.
The nearly fifty year tenure of Ercole Barovier as artistic director, designer and owner of Barovier & Toso is unprecedented in the history of Murano glass, and the firm’s success stands as a testament to his singular artistic talent and entrepreneurial genius.
Born in 1889 to a Muranese family that could trace its origins back to the 13th century, Barovier did not train as a glassblower but had a great passion for glass and quickly distinguished himself as an innovative designer. He joined Artisti Barovier in 1919 at the age of thirty and found success designing vases in the mosaic technique. In 1930 he produced the critically acclaimed and award-winning Primavera series, the success of which encouraged him to continue his experiments.
Auction Results Ercole Barovier
