Francesco Ferro e Figlio

Francesco Ferro e Figlio
Oxidized silver leaf vase

Italy, ca. 1880
Opalescent glass with oxidized silver leaf surface
4 1/4" h (11 cm)

This rare vase was executed during the Murano Renaissance of the middle to late nineteenth century. The work of Francesco Ferro e Figlio received great acclaim during the last quarter of the century and helped to catapult Murano back onto the global stage for glass production. Their work is scarce and rarely seen today. The vase features an opalescent white core with oxidized silver leaf melted into the surface. Tangentially related is the work is Giulio Radi for AVEM where he experimented with the chemical reactions of metal foils on glass surfaces, but some sixty years later. Glassblowers on Murano were continually getting inspiration from the past, creating a wonderful full circle effect. 

Excellent condition. 

Reference: The Colors of Murano in the XIX Century, Bova, Junck, and Migliaccio, p. 62 shows series.