Rare Pair of “Festoni” Wall Sconces by Ercole Barovier for Barovier & Toso, 1938

An exceptional and highly collectible pair of “Festoni” wall sconces designed by Ercole Barovier for Barovier & Toso in 1938, among the most sculptural and expressive examples of pre-war Murano lighting design.

Executed in extraordinarily thick hand-blown crystal glass, the shades are composed of an intricate succession of flowing festoon motifs that wrap around the entire body of each fixture. Rather than merely decorating the surface, the glass itself is sculpted into a rhythmic composition of overlapping curls, ribbons, and undulating forms, creating a remarkable sense of movement and depth. The substantial thickness of the glass captures and refracts light from every angle, producing a dazzling interplay of reflections while retaining the organic character that only hand-worked Murano glass can achieve.

The shades resemble luminous floral vessels emerging from the wall, with a distinctly Barovier aesthetic that combines Venetian decorative tradition with the emerging modern sensibility of the late 1930s. Small air bubbles, subtle variations, and minute irregularities visible throughout the glass testify to their entirely handcrafted origin and contribute to their unique character.

Particularly striking is the way the fixtures illuminate. When lit, the thick crystal glass transforms into a vibrant sculptural volume, multiplying reflections and creating an extraordinary halo of light on the surrounding wall. Even when unlit, the intricate glasswork remains visually captivating, functioning as a decorative object in its own right.

The glass elements are mounted on elegant patinated brass supports featuring a refined architectural profile. The warm tone of the aged brass provides a beautiful contrast to the brilliance of the crystal glass and has developed a rich original patina over decades, enhancing the authenticity and historical presence of the pieces.

Rarely encountered in pairs, these sconces represent an important example of Ercole Barovier’s pioneering work during one of the most creative periods in the history of Murano glassmaking.

The hand-blown glass is beautifully preserved with no visible structural damage. Minor signs of age and use consistent with the period. The brass supports retain their original patina and have not been aggressively polished. Overall, a superb and highly decorative pair.