03 - Vintage Fratelli Toso Murano Zanfirico Ribbon Glass Basket – Applied Vine & Flower

Excellent condition. 5” tall x 4.4.625” x 3.5”.

Magnificent, authentic mid-century Murano art glass basket, heavily documented to the renowned historic furnace of Fratelli Toso (circa 1950s/1960s). This exceptional piece is a masterclass in the traditional Venetian "Zanfirico" (vetro a retorti) technique. The ruffled handkerchief-style body features complex alternating bands of ultra-fine white mesh latticino filigree interwoven with vibrant ribbons of primary yellow, emerald green, royal blue, and rich ruby red. The pattern converges into a flawless, symmetrical pinwheel at the center base. A defining premium feature of this specific basket is its clear glass arch handle, which is meticulously wrapped with a hot-applied green glass climbing vine. The handle connects beautifully to the rim via an opaque pastel blue flower rosette prunt—a classic stylistic signature used by Fratelli Toso master glassblowers to conceal the hot-fused structural joints. The basket sits elegantly on an applied clear, hollow circular pedestal foot ring. As is characteristic of authentic mid-century Fratelli Toso production, there is no etched signature, but the base shows a beautifully finished, softly ground pontil scar. Condition: Excellent vintage condition with no chips, cracks, stress fractures, or fleabites. The glass is incredibly clear with bright, beautifully saturated colors. Gorgeous, highly collectible statement piece for any serious Italian art glass enthusiast!

Note - the yellow stripe glows orange under UV 365x