There is no doubt that this is a gorgeous lamp, designed with a 21st century color. But is this really a new design?
Here is a gorgeous pair of c. 1950-60's murano sommerso bookends by Barbini. The shape is more elongated, but still there is a huge resemblance.
The next image is of a c. 1960's Sommerso vase by Cenedese. Could the form and porportions of the the sommerso be any closer to that of the "new" Seguso lamp? Don't think so. Of course, Seguso had to invert the sommerso and drill through the glass (not that easy).
Now, we are getting to the meat of what caught my attention! Just take a look at the next sommerso lamps:
These lamps were created with gorgeous c. 1950's Barbini(?) sommerso, bullicante and gold flecked murano bookends. The bullicante detailing is a delicate process and the gold flecks are emblematic of mid-century Murano glass making. Yep, they are my designs........ I designed them and had Carlos fabricate the 3" custom lucite bases and electrical fittings. The sommerso glass elements measure approximately 5". They are paired with gorgeous black shades lined in gold foil (the total height of the lamps is about 20"). The next photo gives a hint of what happens when the light from the lamp passes through the glass and then is broadcast by the lucite--in reality, it looks like an explosion of light passing through the lucite.
And of course, the real kicker is that I designed these guys way before Seguso came up with their idea of recreating mid-century Murano sommerso bookends to turn into lamps....I'll take the compliments any way they come. I'm so happy that current design is finally catching up with me. By the way, I still have the lamps in inventory.......
My Mia is having surgery again on Thursday at St. Jude's Children's Hospital in Tennessee........my heart is hurting. But I know that all will be well.
Mary & Jones (and Cole)
