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Glass Identification - Post here for all ID requests => Glass => Topic started by: finders9 on June 20, 2019, 12:00:41 AM

Title: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: finders9 on June 20, 2019, 12:00:41 AM
I recently acquired the pitcher shown in the attached photos.  Initially I thought it was ceramic because of the  texture of the surface but the pontil revealed it is in fact glass, likely murano, certainly Italian.   Additional research prompted me to look at the Nerox glass associated with Fratelli Toso. It measures approximately 9" tall.  I have no expertise in glass: as with many, I collect what I find appealing (and can afford) this being a prime example.  Welcome any and all opinions as to possible origin.  Thanks   
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: catshome on June 20, 2019, 07:48:12 AM
I have mixed feelings about your post......I had a piece in my hands on Monday in a charity shop, that is definitely by the same maker.  I did the same thinking it was ceramic at first.  Untidy broken Pontil?

The one I saw had the same spout, but it had a double spout over a long square cylinder and no handle. In dark blue  satin finish, with white stretched splodges.  Maybe 8-9" tall?  The body of the piece had been squashed and slightly twisted.

My gut said "no" so I passed.......am I going to regret it??
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: Greg. on June 20, 2019, 09:49:54 AM
Azerbaijan glass may also be worth checking out, also usually produced in a fairly bold colour palate.....

https://www.ebay.com/itm/Azerbaijan-Glassware-Swirled-Vase-Handblown-Art-Red-Cobalt-Blue/323642126370?hash=item4b5a92f022:g:ORkAAOSw2fRcNhfJ
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: finders9 on June 20, 2019, 11:54:00 AM
Thanks to both - agree it is almost certainly from Azerbaijan.  That said, I have not seen any Azerbaijan pieces with the black ground which, based on what little I know, appears to be nerox?  In any case fascinating.  As to Catshome - I think you were right to pass - because there were obviously characteristics that did not appeal.  For myself, I not infrequently pick up items I find "mysterious" just for the pleasure of researching and learning - as in this case .  (Of course the price has to be right!)  Thanks to all.
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: catshome on June 20, 2019, 01:41:53 PM
Greg's link showed a piece with the same bottom as the one I had seen.  Having looked at other pieces online, I am 100% sure it is asabaijan glass.  I am always picking up pieces for the fun of finding out about them, and I almost bought it for that reason, but my gut was saying it was early Chinese Murano, and I am supposed to be rehoming almost everything I already collected......not adding to it!

All is not lost......rang them and they still had it so I will pick it up tomorrow and add it to this thread for reference as it is an interesting area of glassware that I suspect we will see more of.
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: catshome on June 21, 2019, 03:45:21 PM
OK....I have it now.....but I have to be honest.....I'm thinking Chinese Baijan now  ;D

A fraction over 9" tall.  As I sit looking at it, it looks purple to me.....but every photo makes it look almost cobalt blue.  The glass feels "waxy" to the touch, and there are distinct areas where the satin finish is missing and the glass is very shiny....particularly on edges. 

I am almost convinced it looks the way it does by accident, rather than design!  It has a fairly decent heft to it.....not overly heavy, but no light weight either.  Unable to weigh it as my scales have just died after 35 years faithful service  :'(


It photographs much better than it looks in real life!
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: flying free on June 23, 2019, 09:03:57 PM
I guess there are different Baijan makers but this was my piece (given away as a present) and it was immaculately made, not waxy at all.  A satin glass finish, perfectly done.

https://www.glassmessages.com/index.php/topic,40777.msg226010.html#msg226010

m
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: Anne on June 23, 2019, 11:38:48 PM
It reminds me a bit of of Essie Zareh's work, his website hasn't been updated for a while but has several galleries showing his work here http://www.baijanglass.com
Title: Re: Fratelli Toso Nerox Pitcher?
Post by: catshome on June 24, 2019, 01:59:50 AM
M - that's a stunning piece......what a lovely present!

Anne - no idea how I missed that site.  At least I can answer the question about whether it was done by design, as there is a piece with the same squashed appearance

http://www.baijanglass.com/DG%20228%20G.%20R..JPG

However, unless they all look better when photographed than they do in the flesh, the quality just does not appear to be there with mine.  Maybe bajian, maybe not Essie Zareh.