Sculptural submerged glass ashtray by Gianfranco Mandruzzato Murano 1970

Extraordinary sculptural ashtray made by Gianfranco Mandruzzato in Murano between the 1960s and 1970s, an emblematic example of his research on submerged glass and faceted geometry. The work features a compact and monumental form, obtained through the superimposition of multiple layers of colored glass: an internal core in cobalt blue glass is immersed in a substantial amber layer and subsequently encased in a thick crystalline shell. The upper and side surfaces are hand-ground with diamond precision to create perfectly polished geometric planes, while the lower part is deliberately left irregular and material, with an “icy” texture typical of the Mandruzzato workshop. This dialogue between clear transparencies and raw surfaces creates a sculptural contrast of great plastic strength: light enters, is captured by the thicknesses, and returned through warm and deep tones that recall submerged glass of the finest Murano tradition. A decorative object of great presence, heavy, balanced, and iconic, perfect for collectors of Murano glass and for modern interiors that enhance sculptural pieces with strong visual impact.