Dolphin ewer by Antonio Salviati in Murano glass, 19th century

Superb dolphin jug in blown glass from Murano, by Antonio Salviati, with remarkable finesse of execution. Antique, second half of the 19th century circa 1870. A very elegant composition entirely worked hot, with a sinuous body in transparent glass tinted pale pink, enriched with inclusions and gold powder. The handle is formed by a large transparent and gilded fish, with a long arched tail, ribbed crest, and applied eye. The lower part is adorned with a second fish modelled in relief, completed with numerous fins and applications worked with tweezers in shades of pink, green, and gold. The neck rises in a long curve to a beak, giving the whole piece a particularly spectacular silhouette. Circular base also enhanced with gold. 25cm in height, approximately 10 to 11cm in depth and 9cm in maximum width at the base. Very good general condition for its age. The only note is the absence of the left fin of the fish forming the handle, a very discreet flaw considering the richness of the decoration and hardly noticeable when presented. Approximately 700g.