Bidspirit auction | Carlo Scarpa for Venini Murano

Carlo Scarpa for Venini Murano Spiral Shell (Conchiglia) Form, Lattimo & Pink Zanfirico Glass, Signed, c. 1940s–1950s - A Murano glass vessel of spiral shell (conchiglia) form, designed by Carlo Scarpa for Venini, circa 1940s–1950s. The piece is executed in translucent rose-pink glass overlaid with alternating lattimo and pink zanfirico canes, arranged in flowing radial bands that follow the dynamic curvature of the form. The composition culminates in a tightly controlled spiral terminal, evoking a nautilus shell. The interplay between opaque white lattimo and transparent pink canes creates a rhythmic visual tension, while the precision of cane alignment and clarity of the glass demonstrate a high level of technical control characteristic of Venini’s early post-war production. The underside bears an acid-etched signature: “VENINI MURANO ITALIA.” Details Designer: Carlo Scarpa (1906–1978) Manufacturer: Venini Origin: Murano, Italy Date: Circa 1940s–1950s Medium: Hand-blown glass with lattimo and zanfirico cane Color: Rose-pink and opaque white Form: Spiral shell (conchiglia) vessel Signature: Acid-etched “VENINI MURANO ITALIA” to underside Dimensions: Approx.  1¼ inches tall, 4 inches long, and 3¼ inches wide Condition Very good overall condition Light base wear and minor surface scratches consistent with age No cracks or restorations observed Catalogue Note Carlo Scarpa’s collaboration with Venini represents one of the most important chapters in 20th-century Murano glass. During the 1930s through the 1950s, Scarpa redefined Venetian glassmaking by integrating architectural sensibilities with traditional techniques, emphasizing structure, rhythm, and material clarity. Examples of related conchiglia forms are documented in the literature, including in I Vetri di un Architetto, p.224, model 278 where Scarpa’s work for Venini is extensively illustrated.  https://issuu.com/kavanagh-auctions/docs/kavanagh_auctions_-carlo_scarpa_venini_collection_