Preliminary identification
Photo reference
5 uploaded photos
Overview
This pair of hand-blown glass vases features an opaque body in olive green and slate blue, each adorned with an applied concentric 'eye' (occhi) motif. The clean silhouette and striking geometric eye design draw directly from iconic mid-century Italian studio glass traditions.
Story
In 1959, legendary Venetian architect Tobia Scarpa debuted the 'Occhi' technique for Venini, fusing bold murrine eyes into sleek glass bodies. These pieces capture that timeless modernist flair with striking, graphic personality.
Maker / Origin
The iconic 'Occhi' series was originally designed by Tobia Scarpa for the world-renowned Venini glassworks on the island of Murano. While authentic mid-century Venini pieces are intensely sought-after rarities, the distinctive eye design remains widely celebrated and interpreted by master glassblowers across Italy and modern studios worldwide.
Condition & Value
Both vases show smooth, clean surfaces with a ground pontil mark on the base showing minor shelf wear typical of glass; no obvious cracks or chips visible. Values for Murano-style Occhi glass depend heavily on confirmed attribution; unsigned studio glass or later interpretations typically sell for $100–$350 for a pair, whereas documented original Venini pieces reach thousands.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
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Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.