Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Translucent Handblown Murano Vase by Licio Zanetti
Mid-Century Modern Sculptural Translucent Handblown Murano Vase by Licio Zanetti
This stunning and graphic vase was realized in Murano, Italy- the island off the coast of Venice renowned for centuries for its superlative glass production- circa 1970 by the esteemed studio Licio Zanetti. Realized in handblown translucent Murano glass and suggestive of a stylized tear drop, the vase features an embedded hollow concentric form of the same shape in its center; an asymmetrical raised lip; a fin-like protrusion on its back; and a circular cut out in its center. With its beautiful quality of glass and wonderfully idiosyncratic form, this piece is not only a fully functional vase but an object d'art that promises to add a touch of refinement to any table or etagere that it graces. Signed "Zanetti L." on the base. Excellent condition.
Italy, circa 1960
Dimensions:
Height: 16.5" (41.91 cm) x Width: 8" (20.32 cm) x Depth: 3.5" (8.89 cm)
Creator: Licio Zanetti (Workshop/Studio)
Style: Mid-Century Modern (of the period)
Place of origin: Italy
Date of manufacture: circa 1960
Period: 1960-1969
Materials and techniques: Glass
Condition: Excellent.
Reference Number: LU793411617643
LICIO ZANETTI
Licio Zanetti, born in 1937 in Venice, Italy, has become a renowned figure in the world of Murano glass, celebrated for his innovative and masterful glass sculptures. Under the guidance of his father, Oscar Zanetti, a master glassmaker, Licio honed his craft from a young age. Together, they founded Zanetti Vetreria Artistica in 1956, a studio that quickly gained prestige for the artistic quality of Licio’s sculptures, placing it among the most esteemed on Murano Island.
The studio is known for its distinctive approach, combining age-old Murano glass techniques with new methods developed in-house, which allowed for creative expressions that were both traditional and innovative. Licio's work often draws inspiration from naturalistic themes, reflecting his deep appreciation for the flora and fauna of the Venetian Lagoon. His pieces, whether blown or solid glass, are meticulously crafted by hand, showcasing the mastery of Murano’s glassmaking traditions.
In 1989, Licio stepped down, passing the leadership to his son, Oscar, who had been an integral part of the studio since his youth. From Licio, Oscar inherited not only artistic talent but also a passion for naturalistic subjects, which he continues to explore through vibrant collections that celebrate the natural world.
Licio's passion extended beyond traditional motifs; he was particularly fond of designing fish sculptures, often sketching ideas on the spot with a pencil in hand. His unique ability to simultaneously conceive a design and visualize its execution in the furnace set him apart from his contemporaries. This deep connection between design and craft allowed him to bring his imaginative concepts to life with fluidity and precision.
Today, the legacy of Licio Zanetti continues under Oscar's leadership, as Zanetti Vetreria Artistica remains a beacon of innovation and artistry in the Murano glass community. The studio's works are sought after by collectors and admired in public and private collections worldwide, celebrated for their exquisite beauty and unique design aesthetic that Licio Zanetti so masterfully established.
