Blue Murano glass vase with silver inserts, made by the Vetro dei Dogi glass factory in the 1980s. Ø 16 cm, h 24 cm. "Vetro dei Dogi" represents the highest and most luxurious production of Murano glass, which between the 15th and 18th centuries became the symbol of power and refinement of the Republic of Venice (the Serenissima). It was not merely an object for use, but a true diplomatic instrument: the Doges offered the most exquisite pieces to sovereigns, popes, and emperors across Europe to demonstrate Venetian uniqueness and technological supremacy. The connection between the Doges and glass was sanctioned by extremely strict laws. Master glassmakers were confined to the island of Murano to prevent the spread of manufacturing secrets; in return, they enjoyed unique privileges, such as judicial immunity and the possibility of marrying their daughters to Venetian nobles. The techniques that characterized "Vetro dei Dogi" included: Venetian Crystal: Invented by Angelo Barovier in 1450. It was the first perfectly transparent and colorless glass in the world, similar to rock crystal, which superseded the opaque and impure medieval glasses. Lattimo Glass: Created to imitate Chinese porcelain, which was highly precious at the time. It is an opaque white glass obtained by adding tin dioxide or arsenic. Enameled and Gold Decorations: Goblets were painted with mythological scenes, noble coats of arms, or portraits of the Doges themselves, making each piece a pictorial as well as a sculptural work of art. Iced Glass and Filigree: Techniques that demonstrated extreme manual skill in manipulating incandescent glass.
Additional details:
- Brand: Vetro dei Dogi
- Period: Anni 80