You’ve likely heard of Murano glass, but what makes it so special? This centuries-old craft originates from Murano, a small Italian island near Venice, where master glassmakers have perfected their techniques over generations. Renowned for its vibrant colors and intricate designs, Murano glass remains one of Italy’s most treasured artisanal traditions.
Techniques: innovations from Murano
Murano glassmakers have pioneered numerous techniques that define their craft. Among them are Murano beads, cristallo, lattimo, and the sommerso technique. Cristallo was the first colorless glass, developed in the 15th century, while lattimo has an opaque, milk-like appearance. Sommerso, meaning "submerged" in Italian, involves layering different colored glass by repeatedly dipping molten glass into contrasting hues before blowing it into shape. The result is a striking depth of color encased in a clear outer layer, as can be seen in this vintage Murano glass bowl from the 1960s.
Images by David Calleja Trading and sold on Bazaa
History: the birth of an iconic craft
Murano’s reputation as a glassmaking hub dates back to the 13th century, when the Venetian Republic ordered glassmakers to relocate their furnaces to the island. This decision reduced the risk of fires in Venice and helped keep the craft’s trade secrets under strict control. By concentrating production in one place, Murano became synonymous with expert craftsmanship, producing glass pieces that were highly sought after across Europe. Great examples are these iridescent Murano poliedri sconces (left image) and this Murano crystal glass centerpiece (right image).
Left image by Mood Objects and sold on Bazaa
Right image by CASA by Carolina and sold on Bazaa
Secrecy: protecting a precious trade
To maintain its dominance, Venice imposed harsh restrictions on glassmakers: from controlling raw materials to ensuring that no techniques were shared beyond the city. Those who left Murano without permission risked severe punishment, including the imprisonment of their families or even assassination. These extreme measures underscored the value of Murano glass to the Venetian economy and its status as a highly protected trade.
Left image: Vintage Murano Glass Chandelier, 1970s by Clavel and sold on Bazaa
Right image: Vintage 1960s Murano Emerald Green Bullicante Glass Decanter by Rodwell and Astor and sold on Bazaa
Imitations: the spread of Murano style
Despite Venice’s efforts to protect its monopoly, Murano glassmaking techniques eventually spread. In 1612, Florentine priest Antonio Neri published “L’Arte Vetraria”, revealing the secrets of Venetian glass production. European monarchs soon lured Venetian artisans to establish their own workshops, leading to the rise of “façon de Venise” – glass made in the Venetian style but often of lower quality. Though these imitations gained popularity, Murano glass remains the gold standard, distinguished by its centuries-old tradition and craftsmanship.
Left image: Murano Vistosi Sconce by Mood Objects and sold on Bazaa
Right image: Murano glass sculpture by CASA by Carolina and sold on Bazaa
Buying a Murano glass piece is more than an aesthetic choice – it’s an investment in a craft that has endured for centuries. If you're looking to bring a piece of Murano's rich glassmaking tradition into your home, explore our selection on Bazaa. From stunning vases to intricate glass sculptures, you'll find a curated collection of Murano glass pieces. Visit our website to discover these and many more.