The Allure of the Lagoon of Venice

The Venetian art of glassblowing is one of the world’s longest standing traditions. At over 1000 years old this highly valued art form has intrigued and inspired many and has become renowned for colourful, elaborate glass objects of extreme high quality.

The name Murano comes from the island where the glass is produced. Situated in the lagoon of Venice artisans started moving to the island as early as 1204. Over the years many of the finest artisans gathered here and when the foundries within the city of were closed down to protect Venice from fire Murano became the epicentre of Venetian Glass.

With all the many artisans centred at Murano techniques evolved significantly to make Murano glass what it is today. Some of the most loved designers from Murano include Barovier & Toso, Venini, Pauly, and Seguso. Many say the most desirable Murano glass comes from the 1930s-1950s. Looking around Alfies it is hard not to notice the many variations of designs of Murano glass from different periods and designers.

Here are some beautiful Venetian glass wedding beads from Victor Caplin (above). In the stand next to Victor on the ground floor Geoffrey Robinson also has a large range of stunning Murano glass including a magnificant opalescent 1950s wave bowl by Ercole Barovier. The lemon yellow dish (below) is another brilliant example of the innovative design that makes Murano so desirable.

Another example to show the diversity of the artisans of Murano is this incredible chandelier offered by Stephen Hall (below). I think it represents one of the four seasons and there are another three designs to show the others (don't quote me on this though!)

To view a selection of the many beautiful Murano glass items available at Alfies click here.