About this artwork
The spiraling white opaque latticework in the glass of this goblet, called filigrana (filigree) or reticello (network), was a technique developed in Murano, a small island located off the coast of Venice devoted to glasswork. This effect was achieved by rolling a mass of clear molten glass over white glass canes or small rods and blowing it into a tube. Then a second tube fused with white canes tilted in an alternate direction was blown into the walls of the first and formed into the finished goblet. On close inspection of the walls of the goblet, tiny air bubbles are found between each crossing white cane, permanently trapped between the two layers.
Murano dominated the European luxury glass market in the sixteenth and seventeenth centuries. Reticello goblets like this were highly sought by nobles to decorate their feasting tables, signifying their wealth and good taste.
-
Status
- On View, Gallery 238
-
Department
- Applied Arts of Europe
-
Title
- Vetro a reticello goblet
-
Place
- Venice (Object made in)
-
Date
- 1595–1605
-
Medium
- Glass
-
Dimensions
- H.: 17.2 cm (6 3/4 in.)
-
Credit Line
- Mary Swissler Oldberg Fund
-
Reference Number
- 2014.643
-
IIIF Manifest
- https://api.artic.edu/api/v1/artworks/223422/manifest.json
Extended information about this artwork
Object information is a work in progress and may be updated as new research findings emerge. To help improve this record, please email . Information about image downloads and licensing is available here.
