Le Souk Antiquaire
Venetian Beveled and Etched Glass Mirror
Venetian Beveled and Etched Glass Mirror
Dimensions- Height 75cm, Width 36 cm
Circa- 20th Century
Style- Venecian
Materials- Etched Glass and Mirror
Background-
The art of Venetian glassmaking flourished on the island of Murano, near Venice, Italy, beginning in the 13th century. To protect the secrets of their craft and prevent fires in Venice, glass furnaces were moved to Murano. This isolation fostered innovation and the development of unparalleled glassmaking techniques.
Venetian glassmakers held a highly prestigious position and their techniques were closely guarded secrets, often passed down through families. For centuries, Venice held a virtual monopoly on high-quality mirror production. These mirrors were prized possessions of royalty and the wealthy across Europe.
By the 16th and 17th centuries, Venetian mirror makers began incorporating engraving and etching into their designs. These techniques allowed for delicate patterns, floral motifs, mythological scenes, and personalized crests to be added directly to the glass surfaces, further enhancing their beauty and value.
The technique of beveling the edges of the glass panels became a hallmark of Venetian mirrors. This involved carefully grinding and polishing the edges at an angle, creating a prism effect that catches and refracts light, adding sparkle and depth to the mirror.
Price Upon Request
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