Pair of 19th Century Antonio Salviati Venetian Candlesticks W/Applied Green Serpents & Gold Leaf Inclusions C.1880

These Salviati Venetian candlesticks with Applied Green Serpents & Gold Leaf Inclusions are exceptional and rare examples of Italian glass craftsmanship attributed to the renowned glass master, Antonio Salviati. Each candlestick is a masterpiece, featuring a captivating design with light green serpents adorned with gold heads, red tongues, and small black eyes encircling the glass. The entire length of the glass, from tip to base, is filled with exquisite gold inclusions, showcasing the meticulous artistry expected from Salviati.

Salviati glassworks began in 1859 established by Antonio Salviati, born in 1816 in Vicenza and passing away in Venice in 1890, . Originally named Salviati dott. Antonio fu Bartolomeo, the business later evolved into Vetreria Salviati & Co. in 1866. Antonio Salviati, a former lawyer, developed an interest in glasswork during the restoration of the mosaics in Saint Mark’s Cathedral in Venice. His innovative approach transformed glass pieces from exclusive, expensive items into ornamental pieces accessible to a wider audience. Salviati’s contributions extended beyond artistic glasswork. In 1866, he founded Compagnia Venezia Murano with Austen Henry Layard, a British diplomat and archaeologist. This partnership played a crucial role in the history of Venetian art glass. The mosaic portrait of President Abraham Lincoln, produced by Compagnia Venezia Murano and donated by Antonio Salviati in 1866, remains a historically significant piece displayed in the United States Senate House rooms.

These specific candlesticks, measuring 10 1/4″ and 10 1/2″ in height with a base diameter of 4 1/4″ and 4 1/2″, exemplify the hand-blown individuality of Salviati’s glassmaking. Despite being a pair, the slight difference in size underscores the artisanal nature of the crafting process. These pieces are not only aesthetically stunning but also hold historical significance, representing a pivotal era when Salviati revolutionized the glass industry by mass-producing exquisite glass for export.

Considered museum-worthy, these candlesticks are truly one-of-a-kind, and their excellent condition, with only minor losses to the delicate serpent tail tips. The rarity and beauty of these pieces far outweigh any imperfections, making them a captivating and unique addition to any collection of fine art and glasswork.