Centuries old glassworking craft adapts to survive the island of blown glass

Murano glass is one of those products that is inextricably linked to its place of manufacture. This style of glassworking began in Venice in the 10th century. In 1291 the city's glassmakers were banished across the lagoon to the island of Murano for fire safety reasons, and the craft continues today.

Murano became Europe's most important glass-making centre and at its height, the island had its own government, laws and currency. Today, the island's numerous glassworks and shops function as a tourist attraction. The glass blowing techniques of the master glassmakers can be seen in free demonstrations, and there is plenty of encouragement but no obligation to buy the items. The techniques of glass working have been established for centuries, although in the last 80 years they have been used to produce an expanded range of items. Traditional items such as tableware, ornaments, chandeliers and fused glass murrine (coin shapes) are supplemented with more exotic fused objects that explore the potential of glass.

Moving with the times

Colouring is an important feature of Murano glass. Cobalt (for blue), copper oxide (green) and cadmium (red) are some of the minerals used as pigment. Filtration machinery introduced in the 1990s to clean up the glass making process have reduced the levels of minerals found in the Adriatic sea. Modern furnaces have replaced the traditional bellows, also raising the melting temperature to 2,000 degrees Farenheit. The blowing and working temperature is 1,000°F, and fragile finished items are then placed in a kiln for annealing.

The craftsmen make full use of the viscous material to form elaborate shapes – the 'leaping horse' ornament is a popular demonstration piece. Skills are learnt over many years and the craft is handed down, often to family members.

A visit to Murano is a fascinating insight into a centuries-old craft. The island is a short riverbus ride away and it's very much like Venice, but quieter.