65: ARCHIMEDE SEGUSO, A Festoni Biennale vase < Masterworks, 25 May 2017 < Auctions

This particular Festoni vase holds a special significance as it was shown in the Biennale of 1954 and is signed as such. Form and technique are perfectly harmonized here—the looping ropes of cane that form the body distort the perception of symmetry while visually enhancing the elongated teardrop shape. The degree of ability and experience necessary to achieve a piece of blown glass at this level is exemplary.

Exhibited at the Biennale of 1954, form and technique are perfectly harmonized in this exquisite work.

Archimede Seguso’s mastery of blown glass included the execution of difficult ancient techniques altered to suit his own purposes, as well as techniques of his own invention; amazingly, these extremes were often combined in a single piece. Working in this manner, Seguso distinguished himself as a master who existed at his own, incomparable level.

This Festoni vase stands as a worthy example of Archimede Seguso’s ultimate accomplishment as a glassblower and designer—a degree of mastery that continues to inspire glassblowers, connoisseurs, collectors and the public at large.

This model illustrated in a period photo from the Glass 1959 exhibition at The Corning Museum of Glass

Masterworks of Archimede Seguso

Selected from an important private collection, this work is among a group of vessels created by designer and master blower Archimede Seguso and representing some of his most significant work from the 1950s.

While major auctions of Italian Glass usually include one or two examples of Seguso’s work, this is the first time a diverse and truly impressive group of masterworks are being presented in one sale. To that end, this is a rare opportunity to view a cross-section of Seguso’s best work executed at the height of his powers. It is our hope that in the present context, the depth and power of this historically significant material can be better understood and appreciated.