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10 Of The Most Historic Glass-Making Brands From Murano And How To Visit Them
- WorkNourish.com
- Mar 20
- 5 min read
Murano is the second largest island in the Venetian Lagoon, after Venice. It has 7,000 inhabitants and is renowned for its glassware, attracting millions of tourists every year. Murano glassmaking is much more than a craft; it’s an art form that has evolved for over 1,000 years.
Murano, a small island in the Venetian Lagoon, has been the heart of glassmaking for over a millennium. Renowned worldwide for its art and craftsmanship, Murano glass is synonymous with innovation, beauty, and tradition.
The roots of Murano glassmaking date back to the 13th century when the Venetian Republic decreed that all glassmaking must be done on the island of Murano for safety reasons. During this time, artisans perfected their techniques, creating the signature Murano glass. These early pioneers included families like Barovier, Lazzarini, and other ancient glassmakers. The mastery of the craft was passed down through generations, and it is their early contributions that laid the foundation for the rich legacy of Murano glass.
The glassmakers of Murano are not only artists but also pioneers, shaping the development of glass as both a material and a medium for artistic expression. Below is a list of the 10 of the most historic and prestigious glass-making brands from Murano.
Founded in 1921 by Paolo Venini and designer Giacomo Cappellin, Venini is one of the most well-known glassmakers from Murano in the 20th century. Known for its modern designs, Venini's commitment to artistic innovation led to collaborations with many famous artists, such as Carlo Scarpa and Timo Sarpaneva. The brand's work is distinguished by its vibrant colors and intricate techniques, making it a staple in the world of high-end decorative glass.
A giant in the glass industry, Barovier & Toso traces its origins back to 1295, making it one of the oldest and most influential brands in Murano. Barovier & Toso was a pioneer in the development of glassblowing techniques and has played a significant role in shaping the art of Venetian glass. The brand is especially known for its ability to innovate while still preserving centuries-old traditions. Its pieces have graced the interiors of royal palaces and museums worldwide.
8. Lalique
Although not based solely in Murano, the French company Lalique worked extensively with Venetian glass and incorporated Murano techniques into its designs. Founded by René Lalique in the early 20th century, the company is famous for its luxurious glass art, including vases, chandeliers, and jewelry. Lalique's collaborations with Murano artisans have resulted in stunning works that blend French elegance with Venetian craftsmanship.
7. Salviati
Founded in 1859 by Antonio Salviati, this company revitalized the art of Murano glassmaking by blending traditional techniques with the influence of the Renaissance. Salviati became known for producing finely detailed glass mosaics and decorative glassware. The brand played a key role in elevating Murano glass to the international stage, making Murano synonymous with high art.
The Toso brothers, who founded Fratelli Toso in 1854, became synonymous with elegant and artistic glassware that mixed classic Venetian techniques with modern design. The company is best known for producing high-quality chandeliers, mirrors, and artistic glass sculptures. Their mastery of the ancient "lattimo" technique (a form of milky glass) set their pieces apart.
Founded in 1923, Nason Moretti is one of the most important historic glassmaking brands on the island of Murano. Known for its bold designs and innovation in glass art, the company produces a wide range of decorative glass items, including vases, sculptures, and lighting. Nason Moretti has gained international recognition for its ability to blend traditional Murano techniques with contemporary forms and aesthetics. Their collaborations with designers and artists helped push the boundaries of what Murano glass could achieve, ensuring their place in the legacy of the island's storied glass history.
4. La Murrina
Founded in 1960, La Murrina is a prestigious glassmaking company that continues to thrive today, producing high-quality Murano glass with a focus on design and craftsmanship. The brand’s name is synonymous with the iconic "murrine" technique—small glass rods that are arranged to form patterns and then sliced into cross-sections to create intricate designs. La Murrina has worked with several renowned designers and artists to produce glass lighting, sculptures, and other decorative pieces that blend traditional Venetian methods with contemporary aesthetics. Their work has earned them international recognition, and their pieces are displayed in luxury homes and museums worldwide.
Aureliano Toso was established in 1938, and the company’s glass products quickly became associated with both beauty and innovation. Known for its sophisticated techniques and use of color, Aureliano Toso’s glass creations often incorporated gold and silver leaf, resulting in works that shimmered with light. The company was also known for collaborating with important Italian designers and artists, creating timeless pieces for the luxury market.
Founded in 1946, Mazzega quickly became known for its avant-garde designs and experimental techniques. The brand’s glass products often incorporated bold shapes, striking colors, and unique textures. Mazzega’s glassware ranged from everyday objects to high-art sculptures, and their designs were exhibited in major art galleries worldwide. The company’s commitment to innovative designs and contemporary aesthetics made it one of the leading names in Murano glass in the mid-20th century.
1. Seguso
Founded in 1397, Seguso is one of the oldest and most prestigious glass brands in Murano. The Seguso family has played a pivotal role in the development of Venetian glass throughout history, contributing to the evolution of techniques like "a lume" (using a flame to shape the glass) and "murrine." Seguso has been at the forefront of the modern revival of traditional Murano glassmaking and has collaborated with many celebrated designers, creating some of the most iconic glass pieces ever made. Their work has been featured in the world’s top museums, and their legacy continues with beautifully handcrafted glassware that merges history with innovation. The Seguso name remains a beacon of high-quality craftsmanship and artistic excellence, carrying on a centuries-old tradition of glass artistry.
The Art of Murano Glass
Murano glassmaking is much more than a craft; it’s an art form that has evolved for over 1,000 years. Its history is filled with complex techniques like "murrine," where colored glass is fused to create intricate patterns, and "aventurine," a glass with sparkling particles. Glassmakers also perfected techniques such as gold and silver leaf inclusions, as well as the delicate process of blowing and shaping glass in a way that no other tradition has matched.
Famous artists like Carlo Scarpa, and more recently, designers such as Paolo Venini and Ettore Sottsass, have drawn from the island’s rich heritage while pushing the boundaries of glass design. Murano glass is a symbol of fine craftsmanship, combining traditional methods with modern innovations.
How to Visit Murano
To visit Murano, the best way is to take a vaporetto (water bus) from Venice. The journey takes only about 20 minutes, offering scenic views of the lagoon. Once on the island, you can visit glass factories, watch live demonstrations, and explore the unique stores that line the streets. Many brands offer guided tours of their workshops, where you can see artisans in action and learn about centuries-old techniques.
Where to stay? The nearby city of Venice offers an abundance of hotels, from luxury to boutique options, and staying there gives you easy access to Murano. For a more tranquil experience, consider staying on Murano itself in smaller bed-and-breakfasts or boutique hotels that offer a more intimate and local feel.
Murano is a living museum of glass artistry, and to truly appreciate it, take your time to explore the different glass factories, museums, and galleries. The island is small, but its historical and artistic significance makes it a must-see for art and craft enthusiasts alike. Whether you are a collector, a history lover, or simply curious about one of the world's oldest craft traditions, Murano offers a unique journey into the heart of glassmaking.
