Since the thirteenth century, glassblowing in Venice has been relegated to the Island of Murano. This was due to the desire to limit the possible spread of fire to the main Island of Venice if the furnaces had an accident or if a rogue ember got away. Additionally, this concentration of talent allowed for experimentation and industry growth without fear of other glassblowing sectors discovering their secrets. From the dawn of glassblowing on Murano, its blowers and eventual designers have been revered for their expertise and imagination. Their wares, so beautiful and often so complex, have been prized the world over and continue to be collected today.
There are many reasons why Murano glass remains in such high reverence today. Focusing on the twentieth century, as its midpoint was the last truly prosperous time of the industry, few modern glassblowers have the skill to replicate the techniques and decors that were produced by earlier generations. During the first six or seven decades of the century, these immensely talented glassblowers were supported by a public that was overwhelmingly buying their wares for use in the home and in vast industrial applications. This support and resulting prosperity led to more imaginative designs and more extensive production. Fast forward to today, where the buying public has shrunk to a few wealthy individuals, institutions, a minimal number of contemporary art collectors, and the tourist trade. As a result, we see a huge reduction in glassblowing in general, as the demand from the public simply is not present to support the industry.
To continue on that thread, another reason vintage Murano glass remains so popular today is due to its scarcity. Collecting glass from arguably the most prosperous time the Island of Murano has ever seen allows individuals to own rare and interesting techniques that are not being produced today. There is a mystique that comes with owning pieces belonging to a low-production series or owning the supremely delicate and fine that only a few survive decades later. Owning the rare is immensely satisfying, as collectors are afforded the ability to admire the article up close, outside of an institution, and share it with friends and fellow collectors. The latter is, perhaps, a form of boasting, but it is without any negative connotation as the intent is merely to share the wondrous nature of these articles with those who can appreciate. If you are a collector of anything, you certainly can relate.
Lastly, and probably the most easily relatable reason for collecting Murano glass is due to its beauty. We all gravitate towards beautiful things, whether we understand the intricacies of its execution, the historical significance, or none of the above. Additionally, as an example, we all can use that vase in our home, which serves to underscore its desirability by possessing utilitarian attributes as well as making our homes more attractive. Along with beauty, Murano glass evokes a personality and those around it can often feel a human connection to the glassblower behind the piece. Compared to glass blown in other regions, Murano glass readily shows the human element via very minor nuances in production. On the other side of the production spectrum, Scandinavian glass has a penchant for being sterile and too exacting, eliminating any sort of visual human element. I mean no disrespect towards Scandinavian glass; I am merely drawing a comparison and referencing conversations I have had time and time again with collectors on each side. At the end of the day, we love what we love.
In closing, Murano glass will always have collectability, value, and a mystique around it. It can be appreciated by those who are technically strong, by those who love history, and by those who simply enjoy beautiful things. Please take some time to look through the vast collection of Murano glass that I have offered on this site. There is something to intrigue everyone.