Glass Sailfish Appraisal

Murano Style Art Glass Sailfish Sculpture

This is a decorative art glass sculpture depicting a stylized sailfish, likely crafted in the Murano style. The piece is characterized by its dynamic form, capturing the essence of the fish in motion with its prominent dorsal fin and elongated bill. The primary material is glass, exhibiting a variety of colors and techniques. The body features internal swirls of white, orange, and darker hues, suggesting an 'aventurine' or 'sommerso' effect where layers of colored glass are encased. The fins, particularly the large dorsal fin and what appears to be the tail, are made of clear glass with textured, ridged surfaces that mimic the natural appearance of fish fins. The bill of the sailfish is also clear glass, tapering to a point. A striking feature is the eye, comprised of a white disk with a vivid green circular pupil, adding a focal point to the abstract body. The base of the sculpture, which is not fully visible but appears to be a flat, polished area, provides stability. The overall craftsmanship suggests hand-blown or lampworked glass, given the organic shapes and integrated color work. There are no visible chips, cracks, or repairs, and the glass appears to be in good condition with a clean surface, indicating minimal wear or handling. Without a visible maker's mark or signature, attributing it definitively to a specific Murano maker or period is challenging, but the style is consistent with decorative glass produced in the mid to late 20th century. The intricate color mixing and delicate formation of the fins highlight a moderate to high level of glassblowing skill.