One of Twenty-Three Sheets of Drawings of Glassware (Mirrors, Chandeliers, Goblets, etc.) 1850 - 1880

This watercolor, likely created between 1872 and 1909 by the Compagnia di Venezia e Murano, is a design for a glass chandelier, showcasing the detailed artistry associated with Murano glassmaking. Note the precision of the drawing, the delicate washes of color, and the attention to detail in the rendering of glass elements. The design hints at the complex processes of glassblowing and embellishment required to realize this chandelier. The design also reflects the social context of luxury and craftsmanship, where skilled artisans produced elaborate objects for wealthy patrons. In Murano, glassmaking was a tightly controlled trade, with techniques passed down through generations. This drawing offers insight into the labor and expertise involved in creating such intricate pieces, highlighting the intersection of design, craft, and commerce in Venetian glass production. Appreciating the materials, making, and context of this artwork enriches our understanding, challenging traditional distinctions between fine art and craft.