An unusually dramatic and large example of one of Dino Martens' signature designs: black/white half filigree called 'Bianca Nera,' which was developed in 1954 for Aureliano Toso. This balloon shaped vase is made of white and black half-filigree, both colours separated by a single line of sparkling gold aventurine (gold dust).
Dino Martens, artistic director for Aureliano Toso, was one of the most important figures in Mid-20th Century Murano glass, and the 'oriente' series is his most celebrated design. They are considered an icon of Italian glass, and grace the covers of several Italian art glass books. When one of these rare pieces shows up, they tend to be the highlight of auctions.
...click for details
A very rare Aureliano Toso 'eldorado' bowl designed by seminal artist Dino Martens, circa 1952. In thick clear glass heavily cased with inclusions of colored glass powders in shades of umber, rust, blue, ochre and gun metal grey. With patches of white zanfirico. This technique is rarer than Marten's better known "oriente" design, and is extremely sought after by collectors. Similar pieces are pictured in Marc Heireman's book "Dino Martens: Muranese Glass Designer&q ...click for details
Modernist bowl by seminal designer Dino Martens for Aureliano Toso, circa 1950s. In clear glass with amber/orange inclusions. The surface is iridized, and shows subtle shades of purples and greens. The same bowl in blue is shown on p. 57 of Marc Heiremans' book "Dino Martens: Muranese Glass Designer." The bear still bears a paper label with a hand written model number on the base. Heiremans attributes this label to Aureliano Toso in his books. The bowl measures just over 5.75" ...click for details
