MURANO GLASS
Though not French, we simply adore Murano glass! We often come across it brocanting in Provence, partly because we are so close to the Italian border. We always fall in love with it’s distinctive splendour.
Murano is a series of islands linked by bridges in the Venetian Lagoon in northern Italy. It lies about 1 mile north of Venice. The island of Murano is known for its rich tradition of glassmaking. For centuries, Murano glass has captivated art enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike with its exceptional beauty, intricate designs, and unparalleled craftsmanship.
Murano glass comes in a dazzling array of forms, colours, and patterns. From elegant vases and ornate chandeliers to delicate jewellery and intricately designed sculptures, there is a Murano glass creation to suit every taste and style.
Murano glass dates back to the 13th century when Venetian authorities moved glassmakers to the island to protect the city from the risk of fires caused by glass furnaces. This move not only ensured the safety of Venice but also laid the foundation for Murano's rise as a centre for glassmaking. Over the years, the glassmakers of Murano refined their techniques, developing unique methods that set Murano glass apart from any other glass in the world.
Murano's glassmakers held a monopoly on high-quality glassmaking for centuries, developing or refining many technologies including optically clear glass, enamelled glass (smalto), glass with threads of gold (aventurine), multi-coloured glass (millefiori), milk glass (lattimo), and imitation gemstones made of glass. Passed down through generations these techniques and the secrets of glass making were protected from the rest of the world until the end of the 16th Century ensuring Murano held the monopoly on glass making.
Today, to protect authenticity of Murano glass the most famous glass companies have a trademark to certify it’s origin. These design houses include Venini, Alessandro Mandruzzato Ferro Murano, Barovier & Toso, Simone Cenedese and Seguso.
Designer Murano pieces are investments that last a lifetime. We particularly love this Venini Pendant Light we currently have in stock! >>
The intricate beauty and timeless elegance of Murano Glass continues to captivate people (and us!) around the world. Murano glass represents the union of tradition and innovation, a testament to the enduring legacy of this ancient craft.
