Intermezzo Murano

Intermezzo Murano

Modern meets Baroque

In cooperation with
Die Neue Sammlung – The Design Museum

Murano exemplifies Italian glass art par excellence. In the 13th century, Venice moved its glass production, already world-famous at the time, to the neighboring island. After an eventful history, glass from Murano experienced new heights from the early 20th century onward. Manufacturers such as Barovier & Toso, Seguso Vetri d‘Arte or Venini & C. surpassed the limits of tradition with their products.
Renowned designers, architects, painters and ceramists, together with experienced glassmakers, created modern glass art of the highest quality: precious objects in all facets, ranging from delicate creations with filigree net patterns to massive vessel objects of uniquely radiant colour.

“Intermezzo Murano” combines exceptional modern glass objects with historical masterpieces. This juxtaposition illuminates two highly innovative eras. In the 17th century, glass engraving and glass cutting, two cold finishing techniques transferred to glass from gemstone working, revolutionized the art of glass.
The Murano glasses on display are characterized by techniques used in the fabrication of the object in front of the hot glass furnace. Based on designs from Carlo Scarpa to Ettore Sottsass, novel, mostly freely formed pieces with abstract decorations in surprising colour combinations were created.