Mid-Century Flavio Poli for Seguso Submarine Murano Glass Vase

Blue & Green “Submarine” Sommerso Vase by Flavio Poli (Seguso Vetri d’Arte), Italy

A striking mid-century Murano glass vase in Flavio Poli’s iconic “submarine” (sommerso) technique, cased in brilliant aquatic layers of blue and green that appear to float within clear crystal.

The softly torpedoed profile and thick polished rim/base showcase Seguso’s precision and Poli’s mastery of colour density and light.

Designer/Attribution: Flavio Poli for Seguso Vetri d’Arte
Origin: Murano, Italy
Period: Mid-century (circa 1950s–60s)
Materials: Hand-blown Murano glass, sommerso technique
Colours: Deep ocean blue over emerald green, encased in clear

1. Designer pedigree

Flavio Poli (1900–1984) was one of Murano’s most celebrated designers, art director at Seguso Vetri d’Arte, and a pioneer of the sommerso (“submerged”) technique. His pieces are in major museum collections worldwide (MoMA, Murano Glass Museum), which elevates desirability and value.

2. Technique & craftsmanship

The submarine vases use multiple layers of coloured glass encased in thick, clear crystal - requiring extraordinary precision in heat control and timing. Few artisans today can replicate Poli’s depth of colour and optical illusion effects.

3. Mid-century Murano rarity

These vases were produced in the 1950s–60s and are no longer made. Many have been lost, damaged, or are held in private collections. Condition and provenance significantly increase scarcity.

Why we love it

• Classic Poli submarine silhouette with rich, layered colour play
• Thick, light-catching walls that glow in natural light
• A versatile statement for consoles, shelving, or credenzas; works beautifully solo or in a Murano cluster

Styling notes
Pair with walnut, travertine, or brass accents; let sunlight pass through to amplify the gradients.

Condition: Original, excellent vintage condition with minor, age-appropriate surface wear only. No chips, cracks, or restorations observed. 

Measurements:
Height: 14cm
Length: 25.5cm

Pricing notes

This piece is priced in line with international values, with works of this quality increasingly scarce and difficult to source within Australia.