Barovier & Toso Murano glass table lamp Rostrato, 1950s

Murano glass table lamp made by Barovier & Toso in Italy during the 1950s, crafted entirely from hand-blown and hand-moulded transparent glass using the rostrato technique. The stepped dome-shaped base is composed of concentric rows of stretched glass spikes that refract ambient light. From the centre rises a vertically ribbed cylindrical glass column, divided by four wavy horizontal rings and topped by two thick pieces of faceted glass that enclose an inner metal rod in a brass tone. Lampshade not included. Its compact proportions allow the base to be placed on a bedside table, side table, console or desk in residential or hospitality projects. As each raised spike and applied ring is hand-moulded while hot, the surface shows slight organic variations typical of the Venetian glassmaking tradition of the mid-20th century. Collectors and interior designers specialising in Italian Mid-Century Modern design seek pieces made with the rostrato technique for their architectural silhouette, raised texture and glass purity. Height 30 cm (11.8 in), Diameter 14 cm (5.5 in).