Murano Glass: Art from Venice

Murano glass, this artisanal craftsmanship has been a symbol of Venice for centuries. This fine glassware, which originated on the island of Murano in the Venetian lagoon, is known worldwide for its unique aesthetics and craftsmanship. We would like to explain a little more about the history, the production process of Murano glass, and what makes it so special.

History of Murano Glass

The history of Murano glass begins in the 13th century, when the Venetian government decided to banish all glassblowers in Venice to the island of Murano. This decision was made to reduce the risk of fire in the city of Venice, as the glass furnaces posed a significant fire hazard. Murano glassblowers were not allowed to leave the island, which is not very nice, but this was so that they would not share their secret techniques. As a result, Murano flourished as a center for glass production.

Murano glassblowers have perfected the art of glassblowing over centuries, and their craftsmanship has been passed down from generation to generation. The result is a rich legacy of beautiful glasswork that is admired worldwide.

Production process

The process of making Murano glass is a complex and time-consuming craft. It begins with melting sand, soda and limestone at high temperatures to create a liquid glass mass. This mass is then rolled up at the end of a blowpipe, where the glassblower uses his skill to shape and manipulate it.

One of the most iconic techniques in Murano glass is the " millefiori " or thousand flowers. It involves joining colorful glass rods together and cutting them into slices, creating a floral pattern that runs through the glass. This process requires extreme precision and patience.

After shaping and decorating, the glass is slowly cooled in a special oven to prevent tensions in the glass. This is a crucial step to ensure the durability of the finished product.

The Variety of Murano Glass

Murano glass is known for its versatility. Whether you are interested in delicate vases, colorful chandeliers , unique jewelry, or beautiful sculptures, there is always something to suit your taste. The rich color palettes and distinctive designs make Murano glass a beloved decorative element in homes around the world.

Iconic glassware

What makes Murano glass so special and timeless? First, the unparalleled quality and craftsmanship. Each piece is handcrafted by skilled artisans, resulting in unique, lovingly crafted works of art.

Furthermore, Murano glass has a rich history and cultural significance. It represents the heritage of Venice and its ability to create splendor. The glass is a symbol of elegance and beauty that has stood the test of time.

Finally, collecting Murano glass has become a passion for many around the world.

Murano glass is more than just a glass product; it is an art form that has endured through the ages. Its combination of history, craftsmanship and beauty makes it a beloved symbol of Venice and a beautiful addition to any home. Whether you are an experienced collector or simply looking for a unique decorative piece, Murano glass has something for everyone.

Seens Vintage and Murano glass

At Seens we mainly sell lamps made with Murano Glass. These lamps are mainly from the 60s and 70s. An example of this is the teardrop lamp by Paolo Venini - made with drops of Murano glass. Below you will find a number of examples of this.

In addition, it has brand DORIA also regularly collaborated with the glassblowers of Murano. We also sometimes have lamps for sale from them.