Vintage Handmade Glass Clown. Measures 12" in height by about 4.5" wide. Good condition, missing a pinky finger.
Command attention with this magnificent 12-inch hand-blown art glass clown, a quintessential example of the playful Mid-Century Italian style. This large-scale figure is a masterclass in traditional glass-working techniques, featuring a vivid "patchwork" or "harlequin" torso made of deeply saturated primary-colored glass. The whimsical design is accented by a dramatic white glass collar and a large, floppy hat, capturing the theatrical energy of the circus in a sophisticated, sculptural form.
Every detail of this clown is hand-pulled, from the exaggerated oversized shoes to the expressive, multi-layered facial features. These pieces were highly popular mid-century imports, celebrated for their ability to capture light and add a bold pop of color to a curated space. While this performer has a small battle scar—a missing pinky finger on one hand—it does little to detract from the overall vibrant presence of the piece. It remains a sturdy and brilliant display item, perfect for a sunny windowsill where the translucent glass can truly glow. For those styling a maximalist or eclectic shelf, this clown serves as a bold focal point that celebrates the history of artisan glassmaking.
This item is vintage, approximately 60 years old.