Murano Glass Sommerso Vase Value Guide

This 1960-1970 Murano Glass Sommerso Vase is a quintessential example of mid-century Italian craftsmanship, featuring vibrant red and yellow layers 'submerged' in thick clear glass. Its sculptural depth and bold color play make it a highly sought-after piece for collectors of vintage European art glass.

What affects the value of Murano Glass Sommerso Vase?

• The presence of original manufacturer stickers or designer signatures significantly increases the $180-$220 valuation.
• Physical condition is critical; any chips, 'flea bites' on the edges, or internal clouding will reduce the market price.
• The vibrancy and contrast of the red and yellow pigments compared to the clarity of the surrounding glass.
• The complexity of the geometric shape and the overall height of the vase.

How to Identify Murano Glass Sommerso Vase?

• Look for the distinct 'sommerso' effect where sharp, clean boundaries exist between the red, yellow, and clear glass layers.
• Check for a hand-polished, flat-ground base which is characteristic of authentic Murano production from the 1960s.
• Examine the glass for high clarity and weight; genuine sommerso pieces are notably heavy due to the thick outer casing.
• Search for remnants of original foil labels or etched signatures from known Italian glasshouses like Seguso or Mandruzzato.

History of Murano Glass Sommerso Vase

The sommerso technique, meaning 'submerged' in Italian, was developed in Murano, Italy, during the late 1930s and popularized in the 1950s-1970s. This method involves encasing layers of different colored glass within a thick layer of clear glass, creating a layered, sculptural effect. This technique was widely used by various Murano glasshouses and designers, becoming a hallmark of mid-century Italian art glass.