Ercole Barovier Rare Pair of Leaf-Shaped Sconces Barovier & Toso, Murano, 1940s

A rare and sculptural pair of Murano glass wall sconces designed by Ercole Barovier for Barovier & Toso in the 1940s.

The sconces are executed in thick, molded transparent glass with a pronounced square-patterned texture, characteristic of Barovier’s experimental research on structured surfaces during the late Art Deco period, at the threshold of post-Liberty modernism. The glass is shaped as a stylized leaf, with an asymmetrical and softly undulating outline, intentionally irregular, evoking an organic form rather than a literal botanical depiction.

A strong vertical central rib runs along the length of each sconce, reinforcing the leaf motif while acting as a compositional axis. On either side, the dense geometric grid captures and refracts the light, producing a deep, warm, and vibrant luminosity when illuminated. The light diffusion is rich and textured, almost liquid, a hallmark of Ercole Barovier’s mastery of glass as both material and medium.

As visible in the photographs, the design achieves a refined balance between geometric rigor and formal freedom: the disciplined, architectural grid contrasts with the fluid, uneven edges, creating a dynamic and elegant presence on the wall. The overall effect is highly sculptural, with strong visual impact yet remarkable refinement.

The sconces are mounted on original brass backplates, retaining their authentic patina, consistent with the period. Minor variations and small irregularities in the glass are inherent to the Murano manufacturing process and should be regarded as evidence of hand production and authenticity rather than imperfections.

This pair represents an important moment in Barovier & Toso’s history, where traditional Murano glassmaking intersects with a modern, forward-looking design language. Rare, sophisticated, and visually striking, these sconces function as true luminous sculptures, equally compelling in historic interiors or contemporary architectural settings.A rare and sculptural pair of Murano glass wall sconces designed by Ercole Barovier for Barovier & Toso in the 1940s.

The sconces are executed in thick, molded transparent glass with a pronounced square-patterned texture, characteristic of Barovier’s experimental research on structured surfaces during the late Art Deco period, at the threshold of post-Liberty modernism. The glass is shaped as a stylized leaf, with an asymmetrical and softly undulating outline, intentionally irregular, evoking an organic form rather than a literal botanical depiction.

A strong vertical central rib runs along the length of each sconce, reinforcing the leaf motif while acting as a compositional axis. On either side, the dense geometric grid captures and refracts the light, producing a deep, warm, and vibrant luminosity when illuminated. The light diffusion is rich and textured, almost liquid, a hallmark of Ercole Barovier’s mastery of glass as both material and medium.

As visible in the photographs, the design achieves a refined balance between geometric rigor and formal freedom: the disciplined, architectural grid contrasts with the fluid, uneven edges, creating a dynamic and elegant presence on the wall. The overall effect is highly sculptural, with strong visual impact yet remarkable refinement.

The sconces are mounted on original brass backplates, retaining their authentic patina, consistent with the period. Minor variations and small irregularities in the glass are inherent to the Murano manufacturing process and should be regarded as evidence of hand production and authenticity rather than imperfections.