Why is Murano glass so rare and valuable?
Without giving you a history lesson, here are 4 facts you may not have known about Murano Glass:
1. In the 14th Century, Murano glass was such a coveted commodity that glass masters were treated like royalty. This however came at a high price. The city wanted to keep the extremely profitable trade to itself and forbade glass masters to ever leave the island threatening death to anyone who left the Republic of Venice.
2. Unfortunately these days you can find reproductions of Murano glass posed as originals right in the center of Venice. Its sad to say that not all the glass in Venice is even made in Europe! The only way to tell is to ask for a certificate of Authenticity or to look for the Vetro Artistico di Murano label which is only granted to registered manufacturers.
3. The gold colour you find on some pieces of Murano glass is made from real gold leaf.
4. Murano glass was the first of its kind to create crystal clear glass. Void of bubbles and impurities, it is still one of the tell tale signs to good glass craftsmanship today
Murano glass in the 20th Century
One of my favourite 20th Century Murano glass designers is Nason Moretti which was established in 1923. Their modern contemporary designs and coloured creations were ahead of there time and are still noted as great designs today. Have a look at the below objects to see for yourself.
The above lamp titled 1923 was the first object designed and produced for the glass house. It is still produced today and is one of the most popular items from their collection.
The Dandy water glasses are by far my favourite items because of the amazing range of vibrant colours. The glasses are also formed to fit your hand which give them an organic shape made for a perfect purpose.
The Dandy Water Jug designed in 2011
A photo cant do the these glasses justice with the white and grey filigree texture and thin layer upon layer of pristine clear glass. Also available in stemware which can be viewed on a beautifully set table below.
This image was posted on Shamgreene
Where to buy Nason Moretti?
If you are visiting the Island of Murano, I would suggest you visit the store Elle Elle Murano. They are very friendly and patient too (which is important when you are investing is such a key art piece).
Now don't despair if you think you cant ever own a piece of original Murano art. Elle Elle Murano also sell sample glass, which is basically the colour tests made by the glass masters each day to ensure the consistency. These vibrant raindrop creations cost as little as 40 Euros and look amazing when hung in a collection together. Here is a photo I took of the sample glass displayed in their front window.
