Blown glass, hammered glass, sculptural glass, and then “Artistic Glass” as a registered trademark, showrooms, galleries, exhibitions, live demonstrations carried out right before the eyes of anyone who, out of curiosity or chance, wants to admire the work of Murano glass masters in person. There is an entire world behind Murano glass as an artistic object. A world made of traditions, tools, models, colours, but above all of people who keep this immense and precious heritage alive.
For a tourist visiting Venice and Murano, it is not easy to fully understand the history hidden behind a simple vase or decorative object. Yet, as we explain on the page dedicated to glassmaking on our website, there are many aspects that deserve to be told and shared, especially with those who are not industry experts.
This is not just a matter of curiosity, but a set of important information to know when choosing where to buy Murano glass artworks and how to recognize an authentic piece. At Ellegi Murano Glass, we have always been committed to sharing the knowledge we have cultivated and continue to cultivate in our glass factory. For several years now, we have been offering guided tours open to everyone, a relaxed and engaging way to witness firsthand the spectacular process of Murano glassmaking.
In this article, we have selected, in no order, the main things to know about this historic and highly appreciated craft. If you want to discover the secrets and wonders of Murano glassmaking, get comfortable and enjoy the read.
1) BLOWN GLASS, HAMMERED GLASS OR SCULPTURAL GLASS?
The first point to consider concerns the different types of glassmaking techniques. Blown glass is not the only method: although it is probably the most iconic and well-known technique, we should not forget hammered glass, also known as sculptural glass. In this process, the glass is carefully struck while it is still extremely hot.
While blown glass is typically used to create vases, lamps, and more delicate objects, hammered glass is better suited for small sculptures such as horses, figurines, and similar artworks.
2) THE REGISTERED TRADEMARK “MURANO ARTISTIC GLASS”
Did you know that Murano glass is protected by an official trademark? Much like the famous DOC and DOCG wine labels, Murano glass also has an official certification. As stated on the Veneto Region website, on the page dedicated to Murano Artistic Glass:
The “Murano Artistic Glass®” trademark, registered and filed with the European Union Intellectual Property Office in Alicante under no. 000481812, was established and regulated by Regional Law no. 70 of 1994.
For more than 30 years, Murano artistic glass has been officially recognized as a product with a designation of origin, as it is an integral part of Venetian history and culture. When purchasing Murano glass artworks, always check the label and, even before that, the official stickers displayed on the windows of authorized furnaces and shops.
3) WHERE TO WATCH MURANO GLASSMAKING LIVE
Another important thing to know about Murano glassmaking is where you can watch the production process live. Even today, there are many master glassmakers who practice this craft full-time. This is not folklore, but an ancient profession that has withstood the passage of time.
There are several places where you can sit back and observe the patient work of these artisans. Furnaces like ours host one or more glass artists who perform in front of the public, either continuously, as in our case, or on specific occasions. If you would like to learn more, we invite you to explore this topic further in the “Glass Factory Visit” section of our website.
4) WHAT PRODUCTS ARE CREATED BY WORKING WITH GLASS?
Another interesting question concerns the types of Murano artistic glass objects that are created. In other words, what is produced using blown or hammered Murano glass?
The answer is a long list of objects that, in most cases, have no specific functional purpose. These are artistic works intended primarily to enhance and decorate a room, a table, a bookshelf, or a home in general. Examples include chandeliers, vases, decorative objects, figurines, and the kind of pieces our grandparents loved to display in their living rooms or bedrooms.
Some people buy them as souvenirs, others give them as gifts, some keep them as treasured items, while others use them as interior décor. In the “Products” section, you can see some of our creations, but remember: every piece is unique, and that is what makes it special.
5) HOW MUCH DOES A MURANO GLASS ARTWORK COST?
Continuing our list, we come to a point that many people care deeply about: the price. How much does an authentic Murano artistic glass piece cost?
The price mainly depends on two factors: complexity and size. Sometimes even small sculptures are extremely sophisticated, requiring more time and skill from the artist. In other cases, size plays a major role: larger pieces require more material, more working hours, and greater attention during the creation process, especially when balance is involved, as extended shapes are more difficult to produce.
As a result, prices can vary greatly, from a few dozen euros for small decorative objects to several thousand euros for large artistic lamps. Shipping can also affect the final cost, since bulky items are not easy to transport by plane or car.
6) CAN AN INEXPERIENCED PERSON WORK WITH GLASS?
Some people wonder whether Murano glass is really that difficult to work with. After all, watching videos online can make it look simple. Why not try it yourself?
The first reason is that blowing or hammering glass requires a furnace capable of melting, or nearly melting, the material. Beyond that, what truly makes the difference is skill and mastery of the techniques. Working such a fragile material without experience is simply unrealistic.
A better option is to try a first hands-on experience under the guidance of a qualified master, an opportunity that will soon also be available in our furnace. Contact us to learn more.
7) HOW TO BUY ORIGINAL MURANO GLASS ARTWORKS
Finally, let’s talk about how to buy authentic Murano glass artworks. The first option that often comes to mind is online shopping. In reality, buying this kind of artwork online is difficult for several reasons: it is hard to fully appreciate its real value, counterfeits are always a risk, and there is no direct interaction with the seller or the artist who created the piece.
At Ellegi Murano Glass, we have chosen to sell our Murano artistic glass creations directly at our furnace, independently of the guided tour. Anyone can enter, visit the showroom, and fall in love with our artworks. We offer multiple payment options and worldwide shipping, backed by many years of experience.
WE LOOK FORWARD TO WELCOMING YOU TO MURANO FOR A GUIDED FURNACE TOUR
At this point, all that remains is to summarize and renew our invitation to visit us in person at our furnace. After all, what better way to experience something so fascinating than being there in person, perhaps with your family or partner?
Our tours take place every day from 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM from April to November, and from 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM from December to March. Admission costs only €5, while children and teenagers under 15 enter for free.
If you prefer to skip the line, you can fill out the online booking form in just a few seconds. Once you receive the confirmation email, you can visit on your chosen day and time without waiting. Ellegi Murano Glass is located at Fondamenta S. Giovanni dei Battuti, 4b/5, on the island of Murano. For more information, feel free to contact us by email at ellegimuranoglass@gmail.com or by phone at +39 041 527 4822.
Tours are available in English, French, Italian, and other languages. Just specify your country of origin here or in the online form. If you are part of a group of more than 15 people, please let us know in advance.