Question 1

What is Zanfirico glass?

Accepted Answer

Zanfirico glass is a term for glassware produced using a technique developed in Murano, Italy. It involves making glassware by stretching and twisting filigree glass canes, which gives pieces intricate lattice patterns. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Zanfirico glassware.

Question 2

What is Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is colorful art glass primarily produced on Murano, an island in Venice, Italy. Artisans produce a variety of Murano glass decorative objects, including vases, lamps, candle holders, figurines, bowls and wine glasses. Shop a selection of Murano glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 3

How can I identify Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. Find a collection of authentic Murano glass from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 4

Can Murano glass be clear?

Accepted Answer

Although Murano glass is usually brightly colored, there are a few varieties of clear Murano glass. Cristallo glass, which is achieved by a process of bleaching, is a type of clear Murano glass. Shop a range of antique and vintage Murano glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 5

Is Murano glass valuable?

Accepted Answer

Whether Murano glass is valuable depends on a variety of factors, including the type of piece and its condition. Artisans on Murano, an island in Venice, Italy, produce the colorful glassware through a unique process. Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. One of the earliest Venetian glass furnaces is believed to have been established as far back as the 8th century (the filigrana technique is as old as the 16th century). A certified appraiser can help you determine the value and authenticity of a particular piece. On 1stDibs, shop a selection of Murano glassware.

Question 6

Is Murano glass worth it?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many glass lovers believe that Murano glass is worth it. Murano glass is named for the Venetian island of Murano, where glassmaking has been practiced for centuries. The glass is made using a variety of artisanal processes and is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Every vintage Murano glass decorative object is unique. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and irregular shapes due to the freeform creation process. However, whether or not it’s worth investing in Murano glass is totally subjective! At 1stDibs, we believe in buying what you love. Our shopping experience enables discovery and learning, whether you are a seasoned connoisseur or just beginning your collection. Find Murano glass and other art glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 7

Is Murano blown glass?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano is blown glass. Artisans on Murano, an island in Venice, Italy, produce the colorful glassware through a unique process. Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. One of the earliest Venetian glass furnaces is believed to have been established as far back as the 8th century (the filigrana technique is as old as the 16th century). On 1stDibs, shop a collection of Murano glassware from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 8

What is Aventurine in Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano Aventurine is glass that has been decorated with a surface effect which resembles shimmering specks found in quartz. This technique was pioneered by Murano in the 17th century. On 1stDibs, find Murano glass products from top sellers around the world.

Question 9

Why is it called Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

It is called Murano glass because of its place of origin. During the 13th century, artisans on the island of Murano in Venice, Italy, became famous for producing colorful glassware. Find a range of Murano glass from some of the world's top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Does Murano glass have markings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano glass is typically marked. You will usually find the markings on the bases of pieces or in other inconspicuous areas. Generally, Murano glass will display a trademark and a maker's mark, indicating which shop produced it. In most cases, authentic Murano glass will not have the word "Murano" on it. On 1stDibs, explore a selection of Murano glass.

Question 11

Does Murano glass break?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Murano glass can break. Generally considered very durable, Murano glass is still made of glass and it is susceptible to breaks if it’s improperly handled or dropped. Known as some of the best glass produced in the world, unfortunately it can still break. On 1stDibs, find a collection of authentic Murano glass pieces from some of the world’s top sellers.

Question 12

How is Murano glass marked?

Accepted Answer

How Murano glass is marked varies. Some pieces feature a label, sticker or other mark that bears the name of the studio that produced them. Others may only have an artist's signature or be unmarked. However, Murano glass artisans rarely put the word "Murano" on their pieces, though you will often see the word on replicas. For assistance determining whether a particular piece is Murano, consult an expert appraiser or antiques dealer. On 1stDibs, find a collection of Murano glass.

Question 13

What are the characteristics of Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass, from the Venetian island of Murano, is world-renowned for excellent craftsmanship and a wide variety of colors and decorations. The glassmakers of Murano use methods honed over centuries to create rich colors and designs by mixing different minerals during the process. Many examples contain gold and silver flecks inside the glass. You’ll find a collection of authentic Murano glass from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What is Murano glass made of?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is made of a combination of materials. In most cases, artisans use a blend of silica, soda, lime and potassium to produce the colorful art glass. The mixture gets heated to a high temperature to melt it, so that glassblowers can form it into various shapes. On 1stDibs, find a selection of Murano glass.

Question 15

Where is Murano glass signed?

Accepted Answer

Authentic Murano glass often, but not always, includes labels with the name of the workshop, the signature of the glass master and a certificate of authenticity. To best determine if a Murano glass is authentic, look up the location of the factory found on the label. All authentic Murano glass is produced in Venice or Murano. Always purchase Murano glass from a reputable seller to ensure authenticity. Browse a selection of authentic Murano glass pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 16

Where does Murano glass come from?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass comes from Murano, an island located in the Venetian Lagoon to the north of Venice, Italy. Many people mistake the name Murano for that of a brand or company, but the term actually applies to glassware produced by a variety of makers. Fratelli Toso, Umberto Bellotto, the Salviati family, Ercole Barovier, Carlo Scarpa, Paolo Venini and Alfredo Barbini are just some of the glassblowers known for producing Murano glass. On 1stDibs, explore a wide range of Murano glass.

Question 17

What is the difference between Venetian glass and Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

There is no real difference between Venetian glass and Murano glass. While both Venetian glass and Murano glass come from Murano Island, Venice is a more popular location than Murano, hence it is called widely as Venetian glass. You can use both search terms to find the best piece for you on 1stDibs.

Question 18

What makes Murano glass so special?

Accepted Answer

Murano glass is highly-coveted due to the glassblowing processes used to create each piece. Murano glass is known for its vivid color, handcrafted in Murano and Venice and a favorite among collectors and home interior decor enthusiasts. Browse a wide array of Murano glass from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 19

How can you tell if a bird is Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

To tell if a bird sculpture is made of Murano glass, professionals recommend having an antiques dealer or Murano glass expert examine it. Otherwise, look for the signature of the artist or factory on the piece. Authentic Murano glass will often, but not always, include labels with the name of the workshop, the signature of the glass master and a certificate of authenticity. Use trusted online resources to determine if the maker's location is or was in Murano, in northeastern Italy. Seeing the word "Murano" on a glass decorative object doesn't mean that it is authentic. In fact, most genuine pieces won't show the word "Murano." Murano glass is identifiable by its richly layered colors and characteristic gold or silver flecks inside the glass. Authentic Murano glass often has small imperfections and an irregular shape due to the freeform creation process. Find a collection of Murano glass decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 20

How can I spot real Murano glass?

Accepted Answer

To identify genuine Murano glass, first check for the certificate of authenticity. Sometimes, but not always, there will be a label with the workshop and the signature of the maker on the piece. Shop a collection of authentic Murano glass pieces from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Murano Zanfirico Glass

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Archimede Seguso Murano Zanfirico Latticino Ribbons Italian Art Glass Dishes

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Paperweights

Murano Vintage Red White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Egg Paperweight

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Venini Bianconi Murano Yellow Zanfirico Ribbon Italian Art Glass Fazzoletto Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Bianconi Venini Murano Yellow Zanfirico Ribbon Italian Art Glass Fazzoletto Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Murano Yellow Purple Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Sculptural Leaf Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Archimede Seguso Murano Black White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Zanfirico Ribbons Gold Flecks Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Archimede Seguso Murano Blue Zanfirico Latticino Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Archimede Seguso Murano Green White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Murano Blue Aventurine White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Flower Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Murano Latticino Zanfirico Ribbon Copper Aventurine Fleck Italian Art Glass Dish

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Zanfirico Ribbons Aventurine Flecks Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Murano White Tight Net Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Flower Vase

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Pair of Venini Sconces Murano Glass Zanfirico Filigrana 1950s Wall Lamps

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Archimede Seguso Murano Purple White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Venini Bianconi Murano White Purple Zanfirico Italian Art Glass Fazzoletto Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Fratelli Toso Murano Pink Zanfirico Twist Ribbons Italian Art Glass Flower Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Pink White Copper Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Pink White Copper Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano White Blue Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Vintage Venetian/Salviati Murano Glass Latticino Zanfirico Finger Bowl Saucer

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Vases

Murano Antique Sky Blue White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Flower Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Murano Red White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Decorative Candy Dish Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Blue Zanfirico Ribbons Gold Flecks Italian Art Glass Bowl

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Murano Pink Green Blue White Zanfirico Ribbons Italian Art Glass Fazzoletto Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fratelli Toso Murano Pink Zanfirico Ribbons Gold Flecks Italian Art Glass Bowl

Vintage 1950s Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Paolo Venini pair of zanfirico glass chandeliers, model 5539, Murano Italy 1950s

Mid-20th Century Italian Decorative Bowls

1950s Murano Zanfirico Millifiore Tutti Frutti Bowl

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Large Fratelli Toso Murano Zanfirico Pink White Ribbons Italian Art Glass Bowl

Vintage 1930s Italian Art Deco Wall Lights and Sconces

Art Deco Sconce in Murano Glass in Zanfirico Technique, Italy, circa 1930-40

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Decorative Bowls

Fazzoletto Zanfirico Vase by Fulvio Bianconi for Venini, Venice Murano, 1950s

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Flush Mount

Fulvio Bianconi for Venini Murano Flush Mount Zanfirico, 1950s

Late 20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Candlesticks

Romeo Gigli Pomegranate Footed Bowl, Zanfirico, Massiccio and Gold Leaf, Unique

Early 20th Century Italian Art Deco Vases

Reserved for Marina - Antique White Net Zanfirico Ribbons Flower Vase

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Set of 5 "Zanfirico" Sconces by Fulvio Bianconi for Venini

Mid-20th Century Italian Space Age Vases

Dino Martens Aureliano Toso Murano Green Ribbons Italian Art Glass Vase

Vintage 1950s Italian Mid-Century Modern Wall Lights and Sconces

Fulvio Bianconi Venini Italian Midcentury Wall Sconces in Pink Murano Glass

Mid-20th Century Italian Chandeliers and Pendants

Vintage Italian Mid-20th Century Murano Zanfirico Glass Ceiling Light

Vintage 1960s Italian Vases

Pair of Zanfirico Glass Vases by AVEM

Vintage 1940s Italian Decorative Bowls