Vistosi | From 16th Century Mastery to 20th Century Icons

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^{Ettore Sottsass (Italian, 1917-2007) a 'Schiavona' vase, 1972 (£1,000-1,500)}

Like many of the great Murano glassworks, Vistosi's history can be traced back to the end of the 16th century, a time when Murano glass was at the height of international admiration, displaying a mastery of their cristallo material prior to the stark change in the glass landscape coinciding with the inception of flint glass around a century later. Vincenzo Gazzabin is one of the early names noted in the Murano glass records, with Vistosi appearing shortly after as a name for the heir to this dynasty. At the end of the 18th century, Gio-Batta Vistosi headed the Glassmakers' Guild. This impressive heritage may suggest a rather grand, traditional and even linear nature to their production. However, it would become one of the most iconic glassworks of the 20th century, creating designs that have been featured in publications, exhibitions and significant collections.

^{Ettore Sottsass (Italian, 1917-2007) 'Veniera', 1972 (£1,000-1,500)} 

With the firm's history outlined, we head to the mid-20th century when Gino and Lucian Vistosi turned their focus to lighting at the end of World War II, coinciding with a new Murano furnace being opened. Like many of the most successful glassmakers of the 20th century from Italy or Scandinavia, they began to work with designers, allowing them to express their individual creativity in tandem with Vistosi's technical finesse of glassmaking. Peter Pelzel and Alessandro Pianon's whimsical bird series are synonymous with Vistosi and is featured in several works on 20th century Design.

^{Ettore Sottsass (Italian, 1917-2007) 'Alucia', 1972 (£1,000-1,500)}

Sworders are thrilled to have several works from one of Vistosi's finest collaborators – Ettore Sottsass. The man who established the Memphis Group worked with several glassworks throughout his career, including the famed Venini works. The Vistosi pieces featured in our next sale comprise: Schiavona, Alucia, Basilissa, Veniera, and Morosina. Each piece displays the bold colours that would define Sottsass's career and his unique approach to design.

^{Ettore Sottsass (Italian, 1917-2007) 'Basilissa', 1972 (£1,000-1,500)}

Tuesday 9 July | 10am

design@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

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