This unique set of three vessels was designed by Livio Seguso for Bisazza, representing the “Scavo” aesthetic of the 1980s and 1990s. The set comprises a tall vase, a gourd-shaped vase with handles, and a bowl. Each piece is executed in a rare Ruby glass and carries a waving “morisa” bead that highlights the textured surface.
Technique and Context
The Scavo technique saw two decades of popularity, beginning with the “Etruscan” collection by Seguso Vetri d’Arte of Albarelli and Rigattieri. Many companies produced collections at the time—most notably Cenedese and Padovan—the work of Silvio Piattelli stands out as a significant contribution to the period.
The Scavo texture was achieved by adding minerals mixed with sawdust to the hot glass. The process was dramatic to witness; the sawdust would ignite, leaving the minerals deeply bound to the glass surface. Each company utilized its own proprietary formula for this effect.
The use of Ruby glass in Scavo production is exceptionally rare. Historically the most luxury color to produce, Ruby glass requires the addition of gold to the mix. Finding a complete Scavo group in this color is highly unusual.
While other companies remained focused on Classical Roman and Greek models, Livio Seguso’s collection was unique for its inspiration in Native American art, specifically Navajo pottery—a theme that was highly popular in the 1980s.
These pieces were produced during the early 1990s under Bisazza ownership. This allowed Livio Seguso to pursue his artistic career with the creative freedom found in independent practice, a path similar to that of Luciano Vistosi and Lino Tagliapietra.
Bisazza, the luxury mosaic company, continued producing Seguso’s models through the early 1990s before shifting their focus entirely to mosaics. The furnace tradition was subsequently preserved by masters Elio Raffaelli and Roberto Camozzo.
Carries the spiral Bisazza logo.
Measure listed is that of the tall vase
Here the measures of each piece.
Bowl:
Dia  37cm (about 14″1/2)
Height 11 cm (about 4″1/4)
Medium vase
Height 22,5 cm (9″)
Dia 25 cm (10″)
Tall Vase
Height 30 cm (12″)
Diameter 22 cm ( about 8″1/2)
Misure di riferimento sono del vaso grande