Murano Glass Table Lamps from the 1970s, White Opaline and Brass

A pair of Murano glass table lamps, handcrafted in Italy during the 1970s, in white opaline adorned with a spiral optical pattern, mounted on a polished brass structure and fitted with new white paper shades. The original wiring is retained; a plug suited to the country of use will be installed. Height includes the shade. The spiral pattern is integrated into the glass rather than applied to the surface: it is a 'ritorto' effect, created during the glass blowing process, so each rib runs through the wall of the item and diffuses the light along its entire length. Without lighting, the effect is discreet: a thick glass, of a milky white hue, with ribs appearing in relief, almost like fluting, and the surface taking on a soft satin sheen at the shoulder, where the shape curves towards the neck. Once lit, the glass takes on an entirely different dimension. The opaline assumes a warm and slightly rosy hue, the ribs show in alternating bands of light and shadow, and the entire vessel transforms into a lantern. This is the essence of these lamps, and this is why the switching mode is important. Each lamp is equipped with two bulbs — one housed inside the glass body, the other above, under the shade — along with a unique three-position inline switch. The interior bulb alone is sufficient to give the base a soft and muted glow, while the shade remains dark above. The top bulb, on its own, diffuses a classic reading light through the paper shade, while the glass appears as just a simple white shape. Both together illuminate the lamp from end to end. Few lamps of this type have survived with an intact and operational mechanism. The fittings are brass — a wide disc-shaped base, a collar at the neck, and a ribbed stem leading to the socket — and show the authentic patina and slight marks typical of fifty years of age; they have not been stripped or renewed. The shades are new, made of textured white paper.