There is nothing like the glitter of skillfully crafted, beautiful Venetian glass in the light. Throughout history, prized Murano glass pieces were displayed in locations where the play of light – daylight, and candlelight – complimented the delicate pieces, causing them to shimmer as if by magic. Today is no different. Even electric lighting can make Venetian glass sparkle with a dazzling glamour to give any room the feeling of richness and opulence. A simple, yet elegant Venetian glass mirror, a pair of lamps or sconces, strategically located, can make the difference in any room decor. Dramatic light over small Venetian glass accessories, such as a vase or bowl can draw the eye to the most obscure corner of a room.
The tradition of making Venetian glass dates back more than 1,000 years, during the rule of the Roman Empire. The glassmakers of Venice and Murano, Italy incorporated techniques, materials, and designs handed down through the ages. Today, you can see the rich history of these ancient artisans reflected in the Venetian glass mirrors, lamps, sconces, chandeliers and other pieces we offer.
Becoming a glassmaker in 13th-century Venice was no simple task. First, you had to be born into a glassmaking family. Outsiders were banned from learning the craft. But, being born into the family is the easy part. You had to train for years as an apprentice – at first doing menial tasks, including feeding the scorching hot ovens with wood. You would then be given responsibilities in the glassmaking process.
Little by little, over years and decades, skills and knowledge were bestowed upon you until you knew enough to take over the family trade – which means knowing everything. Before becoming a fully-fledged glassmaker, you could not practice your craft in Venice; all glass furnaces were allowed only on the islands of Murano. Once there, you could never relocate. For many, this was interpreted as a permanent exile. In exchange, you are given privileged status in Venetian society. Your daughters were allowed to marry into the Italian nobility. You and your sons were allowed to carry swords (forbidden to all but citizens of high rank). Your family was immune from prosecution. One has to wonder if this felt something like being a bird in a gilded cage.
Understanding the history behind the skill of the artisans and the knowledge of generations goes a long way in appreciating the beauty of each beautifully crafted piece of Venetian glass from Murano. Even today, evidence of the ancient ways is still quite visible to those who visit the glassmakers. Modern technology is used but in small ways. Venetian glass lamps, Venetian glass sconces, Venetian glass chandeliers, and Venetian mirrors made in Murano still reflect old-world tradition and timeless beauty, lending the feeling of a millennium of history.
For more on Venetian Mirrors, check out Timeless Beauty: Venetian Mirrors Handmade in Murano
venetian glass lamps
venetian glass mirrors
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48.5H x 34.25W x 3D
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