 |
|
|
|
|
Murano Island
Located off the coast
of the Venetian lagoon two miles north of Venice is Murano Island.
It is a group of five little islands clustered together and linked by
bridges. With its breathtaking surroundings and backdrops, visitors
will notice that Murano is very much like a splitting image and an extension
of Venice itself. It is however, best known for its world renowned glass
craftsmen.
As early as 10th
century AD, glassmaking has already been widespread in the city of Venice.
By the year 1200, it has become the city’s foremost industry. The
Venetians were then known for making glass products of the finest quality.
In a move to protect the industry, the Venetian city government at that
time went at great measures to ensure Venice would dominate the glass
trade. In the year 1271, the city leaders passed a law that would disallow
for the importation of glass and the entry of foreign glass makers in
Venice. They subsequently required furnaces used for glassmaking to
be transferred to Murano, to minimize the danger of accidents caused
by fire, within Venice’s charming buildings. Although some historians
speculated that this move was a way to prevent non-Venetians from learning
the tools of their trade. Glassmakers at that time were paid generously
but they were not allowed to leave the island. This move gave Venice
the monopoly in producing quality glass items all over Europe, a reputation
of which lasted for centuries.
Sometime in the 17th
century, the popularity of Murano’s glass products began to lose its
grip. Because technological advances in Europe made it possible for
other growing market to compete with Murano’s impressive trade, the
industry almost became extinct. But thanks to the help of a businessman
named Antonio Salviati, the industry underwent a severe make-over. By
pushing to sell glass tiles outside Venice, Salviati boosted Murano’s
glass industry, as well as its tourism industry, and the response has
not waned since.
Traditionally, Murano
glass makers produce pieces that were first and foremost functional,
as opposed to decorative. But because of their highly developed skill
and artistry, the pieces often come out more beautiful than ideally
planned. Murano glass pieces are indeed a work of art and are often
displayed, rather than used. Although best known for their glass production,
Murano glass workers also produce mirrors. They also developed a distinctive
technique with glass making, involving colored glass.
Today, Murano glass makers still produce stunning and elaborate glass pieces sold with pricey tags but remain sought after all over the world. The industry has also grown to produce jewelry and other decorative articles. In the 21st century, Murano’s legendary glass artwork is still the leading manufacturer of quality glass pieces in the world.