Controlled Bubbles Glass Appraisal

Murano Style Art Glass Owl Paperweight with 'Bullicante' Controlled Bubbles

This item is a decorative art glass figurine depicting a stylized owl, likely of Mid-Century Modern origin (c. 1960s-1970s). The piece is crafted from heavy, solid lead glass using the 'bullicante' technique, which involves creating a deliberate, uniform grid of controlled air bubbles within the glass. The color palette features a vibrant core of amber and deep russet-red encased in a thick layer of clear glass, creating a sense of depth and luminosity. The owl is designed with a rounded body and two prominent pointed ears at the top. The eyes are particularly noteworthy, created by two applied glass 'millefiori' or button-like discs that have been fused to the surface, adding textural contrast. While no maker's mark is visible in this view—typical for pieces originally identified by foil labels rather than etched signatures—the style and execution are highly characteristic of Murano production from Italy, specifically echoing designs by firms like Archimede Seguso or V. Nason & C. The glass appears to be in excellent condition with no visible chips or cracks, showing high-quality craftsmanship through its symmetry and clear color transitions. Such pieces were popular collectibles and functional desktop accessories during the mid-20th century.