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October 20, 2023
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The saga of Murano glass, celebrated for its exquisite beauty and rich history, stands as a collector’s dream. This legacy, spanning more than a thousand years, has cherished the hearts of artists, royalty, nobility, statesmen, and visionaries worldwide. Filled with epic tales of obsession, passion, secrecy, intrigue, and even betrayal, this art form narrative has acquired mythic proportions. This enigmatic art form has endured the test of time, soaring to the pinnacle of its industry, reigning supreme for centuries. It has consistently found the resilience and determination to regain its rightful place in the vast expanse of the glass universe. Collecting Murano Glass is a passion that many people from around the globe share. When you start any collection, it’s important to know the facts, the history behind it, and of course, how to take care of your collection so it may one day be passed down through family generations. We’re here to provide you with 8 essential facts you should know if you’re an aspiring Murano Glass collector, or if you already have a seasoned collection. Grasping the intricacies of Murano glass is paramount in crafting a meaningful collection. Here, we delve into eight essential facts that every Murano glass enthusiast should be well-versed in:

 

  1. The Birthplace of Elegance

    Murano glass finds its origins on the Venetian Island of Murano, one mile north of Venice. A place renowned for its rich history in glass craftsmanship dating all the way back to the 13th century. Maestros, or master glassblowers, have refined their skills for centuries, learning from prodigies before them and achieving a profound mastery of glass manipulation. They have honed their ability to sculpt this exquisite material into any desired shape, instilling it with an array of captivating colors, reflections, and textures. With creativity and generations of experience, these craftsmen have elevated glasswork into artistic masterpieces that seamlessly blend functionality with beauty, enhancing our daily lives. Each piece stands as an eloquent testimony to the legacy of Venetian heritage and the enduring allure of Murano glass.

  2. The Art of Blowing Glass

    Murano glass is renowned not only for its intricate blown glass techniques but also for its mesmerizing palette of colors and exquisite finishing textures. Maestros employ a combination of their unparalleled expertise and artistic finesse to shape molten glass into magnificent forms. Beyond this remarkable skill, the creation of the vibrant colors is a fascinating process, involving the careful mixing of specific mineral additives and compounds to produce an array of rich and captivating hues. Additionally, the finishing textures that give each piece its unique character are crafted with meticulous precision, transforming glass into a tactile masterpiece, captivating both the eye and the touch. In the world of Murano glass, beauty is not just skin deep; it’s woven into the very fabric of the material itself, revealing the artistry in every facet of its creation.

    Murano Glass BlowingMurano Glass Blowing by Alberto DonaAlberto Dona Murano Glass 

  3. Secrets of Composition

    The composition of Murano glass, once a fiercely guarded secret, has been passed down through generations of Venetian maestros. It’s a closely protected blend of silica, Levant soda ash, and manganese, enriched with an array of minerals to bestow unique colors, finishes, and textures. The history of this well-kept secret is entwined with the legacy of the glassmaking island. For centuries, only Venetian maestros possessed the alchemical knowledge to craft this exquisite material into beautiful masterpieces. Being able to engrave, fuse, stretch, and blown into a multitude of forms, decorated in inimitably ways. Each piece contains not only the essence of this closely held formula but also a piece of Murano’s storied past, where creativity and tradition have danced together, unveiling the true magic of glass.

    Pair of sconces, Italian, from the island of Murano. This pair is made of hand-blown glass with gold leaf in the delicate shape of gingko leaves. They are supported on a brass structure. Newly wired to US standards. Different techniques of Murano Glass fixtures and creations.Murano glass green rock lamps signed by Alberto Dona. We love the modernity of the lamps, the abstract form, and the high decorative impact of this dynamic pair. They have been newly wired to fit US standards. Murano Glass collectors should know these facts to become a connoisseur.  Murano glass chandelier in excellent condition. The brass structure holds 75 hand-blown glass elements - 35 with mirrored and amber glass, and 40 with clear and amber glass. This striking fixture catches the light in such lovely ways. It has been newly rewired to US standards. Murano Glass is a world-renowned craftsmanship that has been treasured for centuries.  

  4. Signature Stamps

    Authentic Murano glass is often adorned with a signature stamp or accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, which serves as a hallmark of its artistic origin. These markings are usually a reliable indicator of authenticity. However, it’s worth noting that not all authentic Murano pieces are necessarily signed. To be absolutely certain about the authenticity of a Murano glass piece, especially those without visible signatures, it’s advisable to seek professional authentication. Glass experts, well-versed in the subtleties of this art, can provide the final word on whether your piece is an authentic creation from the island of Murano.

    Murano glass pair of candlesticks with "avventurina" glass columns and rings, deep amber tops and bases. Signed Davide Dona Murano. Beautiful pair of Murano "pulegoso" glass lamps with 23-karat "polvero d'oro sommerso" (gold leaf flecks) throughout. Rewired to US standards. Height to the top of the glass is 27 inches. Pulegoso: Characterized by innumerable bubbles ("puleghe") contained in the glass, obtained by chemical reaction during the heating process. You can tell if a murano glass is authentic by the signature found on the piece. A pair of Murano glass urns made of hand blown glass in a charcoal gray tone. They are crafted in the “baloton” technique. You won't always find a signature, but be sure to check either way.  

  5. Diverse Styles and Textures

    Murano glass boasts a multitude of styles, each offering a unique glimpse into the world of glass artistry. From the vibrant and playful rostrate to the intricately delicate pulegoso, Murano presents a stunning variety of artistic expressions. Beyond the styles, it’s essential to recognize the diverse textures that characterize Murano glass, such as Battuto, known for its finely chiseled surface; Cristallo, prized for its exceptional clarity; and Graniglia, which incorporates tiny, textured grains. Understanding these distinct styles and textures not only deepens your appreciation for Murano glass but also enhances your ability to identify the intricate details that make each piece an exceptional work of art. To learn more about the different styles of Murano Glass, check out our blog: 6 Types of Murano Glass Techniques.

    Italian Murano Glass Chandelier. Made on the Island of Murano, this italian chandelier features graniglia glass blades hung on a brass structure. This Graniglia Chandelier offers a soft glow.A pair of vases made of hand-blown glass from the Island of Murano outside of Venice, Italy. This pair has a light sea glass color and are made using the "Battuto" technique in the manner of Carlo Scarpa. Learning about Murano Glass can help you become a seasoned collector. Pair of Murano glass sconces from the island of Murano, Italy. The sconces feature multiple C shaped orange hand-molded glass components in the “ferro Battuto” fashion. They sit on a chromed steel structure. This pair has been newly wired to fit US standards. Become a seasoned Murano Glass collector by knowing the different techniques used to create their unique shape and texture. 

  6. Collectible Masterpieces

    Beyond their intrinsic beauty, Murano glass pieces are also desired collectibles. Items crafted by esteemed Murano glasshouses like Venini and Seguso often appreciate in value as time goes on, making them a beautiful rewarding investment. At Jean-Marc Fray Antiques, our passion for Murano glass extends to the vintage realm. We tirelessly search for well-preserved vintage Murano glass lighting, with a special appreciation for pieces from the likes of Seguso and Venini. These timeless treasures, characterized by their unmatched craftsmanship and unique designs, are simply irreplaceable, making them truly one-of-a-kind additions to your collection.

    Italian chandelier from the Iconic Seguso factory on the island of Murano. The “Oro Specchiato” glass is mirrored and fused with gold leafing. This elegant and masterly crafted chandelier boasts 16 branches on two levels. Vintage chandeliers from powerhouses, like Seguso goes up in value each year as their delicate nature tends to make them harder and harder to find. Italian chandelier from the island of Murano. This exquisite chandelier has eight branches and four curled up stems with ridged glass components hanging off of each stem. Brass details can be found in the middle section of the chandelier. This pieces uses 9 candelabra base light bulbs. Perfect Vintage Murano Chandelier
      Vintage Italian chandelier from the iconic Seguso factory on the island of Murano. This piece has 18 “braided” branches crafted in a dark amethyst Murano glass. These branches support 18 frosted cone shaped Murano shades. This chandelier is truly one of a kind. Vintage Murano Glass creations are harder to come by due to their delicate nature, but they are great investment opportunities. Murano chandelier by Barovier made with amethyst and white “incamiciato” technique. This piece features 10 branches with a stem alternating between white rings and amethyst spheres. The piece features frosted glass bulb covers. This unique fixture has been newly wired to fit US standards.

  7. Contemporary Creations

    Don’t be fooled into thinking Murano glass is solely a relic of the past; it’s a canvas for contemporary innovation. Today, modern artists and designers embrace this centuries-old craft, infusing it with new life and fresh ideas. Modernist Murano creations are captivating in their departure from tradition while respecting the rich history of this art form. These pieces embody a fusion of age-old techniques with sleek, progressive designs, offering collectors and enthusiasts the opportunity to embrace both the classic and the cutting-edge in Murano artistry.

    Chest of drawers, Italian, from the Veneto region, this nicely proportioned Italian vintage chest has been fully veneered with black and white slabs of Murano glass, it features four dovetailed drawers each with spheric black Murano glass pull. The elegant dynamic cabinet sits on its original black lacquered steel base. Murano Glass contemporary pieces. Mirror, Veneitan, from the island of Murano featuring a rich array of green and yellow hand-made glass leaves fused with 24 carat gold leafing.Chandelier from Italy in the brutalist style. This piece is made of hand-blown glass elements with gold leaf on one side and a textured appearance on the other. We love the unique shape of the glass and the strong impact this fixture has in a space. It has been newly wired to fit US standards. Murano Glass can last for generations when you take delicate care of your collection.

  8. Preserving Beauty

    Safeguarding your cherished Murano glass collection is not just about maintaining its beauty; it’s about preserving a legacy for future generations. To protect these artistic treasures, shield them from direct sunlight, which can cause fading over time. Gently clean each piece with a soft cloth and handle them with the utmost care, passing on the tradition of respect and appreciation for these exquisite works of art to your family. By taking delicate care of your Murano Glass creations, you can ensure they become cherished family heirlooms, connecting generations through the beauty of this timeless art.

    Pair of lamps, of Murano glass, crafted on the island of Murano next to Venice. The important lamps feature a smoked and textured shade in an organic “hammered” fashion, while the base boasts brass cylindrical components and clear textured glass in the “pulegoso” technique. They have been newly wired to fit US standards. Contemporary Murano Glass Urn LampsMurano glass scavo chandelier. Each leaf of the chandelier is used with the scavo technique; which leaves the pieces with a corroded or etched finish. Each side of the chandelier shows 11 plates attached with solid brass nuts. This piece also features stylized bark glass with a gold leafed and patinated finish. It has been newly wired to fit US standards. Contemporary murano glass pieces. Set of three vases from the Island of Murano outside of Venice, Italy. They are hand blown in a tobacco color glass. The organic shape is an homage to Alberto Burri. Created by A. Donna. Learning these facts about Murano Glass turns your into a connoisseur collector.  

As you embark on your enchanting journey into the world of magical Murano glass, keep in mind that each piece you collect is a bearer of a unique narrative, a testament to your passion for the fusion of art and craftsmanship. Collecting Murano glass is not merely just an investment; it’s a heartfelt connection to a grand history of timeless beauty. Whether you’re collection consists of Murano Glass Chandeliers or Murano Glass bowls, your pieces bring beauty and unique creativity into your home. You don’t need to travel to Venice to find these Venetian treasures; right in the heart of Downtown Austin, at Jean-Marc Fray Antiques, our showroom awaits you with a breathtaking selection of Murano Glass fixtures. Come and immerse yourself in the allure of these artistic gems, forging your connection with centuries of beauty and artistry. Your collection will be a splendid testimony to your style and appreciation of the captivating charm of Murano glass.

 

 

Cited Pages:
Images sourced from albertodona.com

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