Dale Chihuly Unique Burgundy Macchia with Yellow Lip Wrap Signed 1999 Hand Blown Glass

Artist: Dale Chihuly
Title: Burgundy Macchia with Yellow Lip Wrap
Medium: Hand Blown Glass
Dimensions: 9.5" x 10.5" x 10.5"
Year: 1999
Inscription: Signed and dated "Chihuly 1999"
Documentation: Includes gallery certificate of authenticity

Renowned for his groundbreaking approach to handblown glass sculpture, American artist Dale Chihuly diverges from conventional norms by embracing asymmetry and irregularity in his creations, thereby crafting distinctive sculptural forms that defy traditional notions of perfection.

In 1981, Chihuly embarked on his iconic Macchia series, capitalizing on the vast spectrum of colors offered by over three hundred glass rods. Experimenting with unexpected combinations, he infused the series with endless possibilities, each piece representing a boundless exploration of color and form. Characterized by a core of solid color enveloped by layers of translucent or opaque white glass chips and another hue, each Macchia boasts a minimum of three distinct layers, resulting in a visually dynamic composition.

Exemplifying the series' dynamic aesthetic, this unique Burgundy Macchia captivates with its characteristic speckled effect and vibrant bursts of color. Deep tones of red and purple dance harmoniously throughout the body of the work, while the striking yellow lip wrap provides a striking juxtaposition against the deeper tones. Through varying degrees of opacity and transparency, Chihuly expertly manipulates light to illuminate the vessel, imbuing it with an ethereal radiance that enhances its inherent beauty.

Measuring 9.5" x 10.5" x 10.5", Dale Chihuly's 1999 Burgundy Macchia with Yellow Lip Wrap is a unique work that was never made as a part of an edition. The glass sculpture is signed "Chihuly 1999" on the bottom and includes a gallery certificate of authenticity.

About Dale Chihuly

Renowned worldwide as one of the foremost contemporary glass artists, Dale Chihuly is celebrated for his awe-inspiring monumental sculptures and installations. He is the creative genius behind the breathtaking ceiling adorning the Bellagio's flower garden in Las Vegas and the mastermind behind the magnificent Rotunda Chandelier gracing the Victoria and Albert Museum in London. Chihuly's glass creations are coveted treasures among enthusiasts of decorative arts, coveted for their exquisite craftsmanship and captivating beauty.

Despite initially showing little interest in formal education, Chihuly dedicated considerable time to academia, earning both scientific and artistic degrees in sculpture from prestigious graduate institutions. While he demonstrated early talents in interior design and crafts, his heart was always drawn to the art of glass. As a Fulbright Fellow in the late 1960s and as an apprentice at the esteemed Venini Glass Factory in Venice, Chihuly honed his skills in Murano glasswork, playing a pivotal role in revitalizing the ancient art of glassblowing on a global scale through his innovative experimentation.

Chihuly's monumental and smaller-scale works grace over 200 esteemed decorative art collections worldwide, a testament to his enduring impact on the artistic landscape. Additionally, the artist has been awarded twelve honorary doctorates, underscoring his profound influence and contribution to the arts.

Among his most acclaimed series are the Cylinders and Baskets of the 1970s; the vibrant Macchia, Venetians, and Persians from the 1980s; the ethereal Niijima Floats and dazzling Chandeliers of the 1990s; and the more recent Fiori series from the 2000s.

For more than three decades, Chihuly has served as the artistic director of his team of craftsmen, a role he assumed following two accidents that left him blind in one eye and unable to manipulate the blowing tube. This shift enabled him to envision the possibilities of glasswork on a grander scale while retaining his signature style, showcasing his resilience and innovative spirit in the face of adversity.