Glass works including; Andreani, Venetian Murano Glass, and work from contemporary American glass makers
The glassworks of 1950’s Italy have an exciting history. Heavily influenced by the Byzantine glass makers of ancient times. Combining meditative mosaic patterns with the vibrant colors of the Mediterranean.Historically, the craft of glass making was introduced some 15 centuries ago to Italy when it was brought to Venice from the Middle East during the period of the Byzantine empire. Several centuries later, in the Middle Ages, operations were moved to Murano when the dangerous practice of tempering the glass over open fires was resulting in fire hazards through the bustling Venetian streets. From the more remote island of Murano, the glass works flourished. The majority of all the great decorative glass art in the world comes from this region, from the 1400’s right up to the present day. The style produced there has endured the test of time, and the modern pieces made by the artists of today carry on the tradition.
The material is what really stands out. Each piece is unique. They can not be produced industrially, but must be produced by hand using techniques that have been passed down through the centuries. This uniqueness is instantly recognizable in the character of each individual piece and makes mass-produced glass works look amateurish by contrast.
By the middle of the 20th century, Venetian glass makers began to work in collaborative efforts with artists and designers, elevating the decorative glass to a radically new form of high art. As a result, Murano is a very popular tourist destination with the craft itself taking on new cultural and artistic significance.
This collection features a number of authentic works from the 1950’s with a beauty and elegance unique from any other art form.
