Italian Periwinkle Sommerso Murano Glass and Alabaster Table Lamp, circa 1950

A gorgeous circa 1950 Italian periwinkle sommerso Murano glass table lamp on alabaster base.

Elegant hand-blown glass twisted tear drop-shaped body in an absolutely beautiful shade of pale periwinkle encased within a thin clear layer. A skillfully executed example of the sommerso technique developed in the 1930s by Carlo Scarpa for Venini & Co.

Its true color is almost impossible to capture in photos, with it having a slightly more lavender tint with baby blue undertones under most lighting conditions in person. A very subtle opalescent appearance in some instances is the result of the way light bounces off the colored glass and refracts through the clear outer layer and pronounced ridges, with the overall effect being quite magical.

On a classical alabaster pedestal base that’s had a broader bottom element added at some point, likely for increased stability. With brass stem, harp, and original finial. Original socket, vintage wiring, and new plug.

Dimensions to top of socket.
Height: 28 in, Diameter: 6.5 in

Height to top of finial 36.75 inches. Body is H 15 in. x Dia. 6.5 in. Base is H 7.75 in. x W 6 in. x D 6 in.

Condition: Good Additions or alterations made to the original: Bottom base element was added some time ago, likely for increased stability. Hole for original wiring can be seen in base element directly above it. Rewired: Original socket. Wiring dating from when base element was added. New plug. Wear consistent with age and use. In great vintage condition overall. Alabaster base with typical age-related mottling, slightly askew assembly, a tiny chip and nick on bottom element. Brass stem and fittings with some tarnish. Finial with dark patina, or perhaps a worn brass finish.