Carlo Nason’s collaborations with Mazzega have produced some of the most distinctive designs in 20th-century Italian glassmaking. This Murano bowl, model S 502, reflects the thoughtful experimentation that defines Nason’s approach—balancing form, technique, and material in unexpected ways.

Design

Designed in 1975, the bowl features a sharply folded silhouette with bold creases that interrupt the typical softness of hand-blown glass. One side is executed in rich 'tabacco colored', the other in clear textured Murano glass. This duality creates contrast while maintaining harmony in shape and structure. The interplay of transparency and tone gives depth, drawing attention to the varying thickness of the glass and the marks left by the forming process. Despite the asymmetry, the composition is well-balanced—organic yet intentional. The rim subtly curls inward, adding movement and reflecting light with nuance. The S 502 bowl embraces the expressive potential of Murano techniques while departing from decorative excess. The color shift isn’t simply aesthetic—it’s a considered gesture that elevates this piece from object to sculptural form.

A compelling example of postmodern Murano design, this bowl captures the intersection of artistic vision and technical mastery. It invites close observation without overwhelming the space it inhabits.

Condition

The bowl is in very good condition. Please note that this model is also referenced on page 155 of the book Carlo Nason Glass Designer 1959–2020: Handle with Care, written by Rosa Chiesa and Alessandro Zannoni.