One of the most outstanding 20th-century producers of Parisian opalescent art glass, Sabino celebrated
the brilliant designs of the Art Deco age. The beauty of their pieces, combined with their relatively short
production duration, has positioned Sabino as one of the most in-demand antique glassmakers available on
the market today.
Sabino began in the mid-'20s when Italian artist Marius-Ernest Sabino started experimenting with new
glassmaking formulas. Having studied at Paris' most prestigious art schools, Sabino set out to create his
own studio around 1925 that specialized in opalescent glass. His experimentation proved productive, so
much so that his designs achieved almost immediate acclaim.
His designs, which ranged from small tablewares, such as decorative knife rests, to larger decorative art
glass pieces, like vases and lamps, all shared a remarkably brilliant opalescent luminosity alongside Art
Deco motifs. These clean patterns and geometric sensibilities were accentuated by the milky luster of
Sabino glass, creating an unmistakable and unmatched beauty. Sabino enjoyed record sales throughout the
'30s, but production stalled during World War II. Founder Sabino died in 1961, and although the company
continued to produce smaller figurines and objects, the brilliance of the brand dimmed along with Sabino
himself.
Quick Facts
- Though Sabino is best known for his opalescent designs, he also experimented with other
colors
- Sabino's contributions were so cherished that he was awarded a knighthood in the French Legion of
Honor
- A record price was set for Sabino glass at a French auction in 2014: two pressed-glass lamps designed
by Sabino featuring the faces of women sold for a final hammer price of $21,484
