Erwin Burger 'Burger art glass' Box – Italië, ca. 1950
A sophisticated mid-century collector's piece designed by the renowned Italian master glassmaker Erwin Walter Burger (1909–1982). This exquisite box was produced under his own label, Burger Kunstglas, during the late 1950s, a period when Burger’s artistry was deeply intertwined with the prestigious Fontana Arte workshop.
The box features a solid, dark wood base with chamfered corners, providing a warm contrast to the heavy, hand-cut crystal lid. The lid is decorated with a vibrant, jewel-toned abstract motif in deep ruby red, emerald green, and sapphire blue. This was achieved through the 'retrodipinto' (reverse-painting) technique, where the pigment is applied to the underside of the thick crystal, creating a mesmerizing depth and brilliance as light passes through the facets.
Originally designed as a luxury cigar box (portasigari), this versatile piece now serves as a refined statement object for an office desk, a jewelry box, or a sculptural highlight in a contemporary interior. It represents the pinnacle of Italian mid-century craftsmanship, where functional design meets fine art.
Length: 19
Width: 11
Height: 6