Rare Sculptural Turquoise Shell Glass Dish by Carlo Scarpa for Venini

Rare and highly collectible sculptural shell glass dish designed by Carlo Scarpa for Venini, Murano, Italy, 1940s. Hand-blown in luminous turquoise glass, this exceptional work is elegantly modeled as an organic shell, its fluid, undulating ribbed form beautifully highlighted by delicate pink-edged rims that create a sophisticated contrast. The harmonious interplay of color, transparency, and sculptural silhouette exemplifies Scarpa's masterful fusion of modern design with the centuries-old artistry of Venetian glassmaking. This rare piece is both a functional object and a captivating work of art, embodying the innovation, elegance, and technical brilliance that have made Scarpa's designs for Venini enduring icons of twentieth-century design.
Signed with the four-line acid mark, "venini murano made in italy."

Architect Carlo Scarpa took the traditions of Venetian glassblowing and created some of the 20th century’s most radical and innovative designs. Before Carlo Scarpa (1906-1978) began designing some of Italy’s most celebrated modernist buildings, he spent more than 20 years experimenting with Venetian glass. His glassware is now highly collectible and regarded as a milestone in 20th-century decorative art.

Scarpa grew up in the Veneto region of Italy, and Venice was a source of inspiration throughout his career. In 1926, the year he graduated from the Accademia di Belle Arti, he started work at M.V.M. Cappellin glassworks. At the time, Venice was experiencing a renewed interest in its cultural heritage. Glassmaking was one of Venice’s oldest traditions and Scarpa was a keen supporter of its revival. Scarpa joined Venini glassworks as an artistic consultant in 1932. Scarpa then spent the next 15 years with Venini, pushing the boundaries of Venetian glassblowing techniques.