The Island of Murano is a famous location where the rest of the world learned to work with and appreciate colored glass. One unique thing about Murano glass is that it is still processed with ancient methods that have existed for centuries, not because we don’t have new methods, but because the ancient method is creative and artistic.
The blowing technique
The most popular processing method for Murano glass is the blowing method that brings about most of the Murano works you find.
Blowing glass involves the process of manipulating molten glass to create sculptures with dexterity. The process involves blowing glass through a cannula and using quick gestures to shape the malleable glass.
Let us proceed to the various steps of this ancient technique together.
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Bolus withdrawal
The crucible is taken off the furnace, which is heated at1370 degrees, where the glass is made into a paste.
Glass is made of silica which liquefies when exposed to extreme heat. The glass is then malleable as it solidifies, and is in a perfect state to be shaped by the skilled hands of the artisan.
The glassmaker rotates the blowpipe in the furnace gently to collect the hot glass called cake or bolus due to its state.
The artisan transfers the bolus to the Marver, a steel table that allows the glassmaker to work on the molten glass by absorbing the heat.
The Venetian glassmaker quickly shapes the glass paste while rotating it and blowing it into the tube.
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Processing Stage
The processing stage is quite complex, but a skilled craftsman will handle it with fluidity.
He would use scissors and pliers to continue the processing while understanding when he should blow into the tube and block the air valve to create a shape called Parison from the glass.
The glassmaker will continue to shape the glass and could choose to add material or not as he goes on.
Upon concluding the processing, he would use large pliers to make precise cuts on the glass and then refine other steps and designs in the oven.
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Final Step
The Venetian glassmaker must detach the artifact from the cannula by immersing it in the water.
When the final product is ready, you’ll have a light, colored beautiful glass.
The artisan can use several materials in their processing, including cobalt which gives blue shades and sodium for opacity to create visual effects.
Beautify your home with Murano glass
Bring your room decor to life by embellishing it with beautiful Murano glassworks, which are hand-made and unique, with a touch of creativity that’s unrivaled.
At Original Murano Glass OMG® you can see how skilled glass masters produce and display Murano glass objects in their showroom, including precious items and unique pieces that find their place in a traditional Italian home.
There are many beautiful Murano glass objects to admire and discover.
There are famous multicolored glass vases that will beautify your home and appeal to your guests. You’ll also find modern centerpieces with embellishments that brighten up your home.
Each Venetian glass object boasts of the passion, experience, and skill of Murano glassmakers, especially the pride of Italian craftsmanship.
If you ever visit Murano Island, you must visit the Murano glass factory tour visit where you’ll see the glass-making process and murano glass blowing show demonstrated by talented glassmakers and craftsmen.
