Bowl

Art Historical Context

This delicate glass bowl, crafted in Venice's Murano during the 17th–18th century, exemplifies the island's legendary glassmaking heritage. Murano, a hub of innovation since the 13th century, produced luxurious vessels prized across Europe for their clarity,, and intricate techniques. Though the artist remains unknown, this small bowl—with handles and modest dimensions of 1¾ × 4¾ inches—likely served as an elegant table accessory or apothecary item, reflecting the opulence of Baroque-era domestic life. Venetian glassmakers guarded their secrets fiercely, developing methods like blowing and molding that achieved remarkable thinness and sparkle. This piece, now in the Metropolitan Museum of Art's European Sculpture and Decorative Arts collection, was generously gifted by Henry G. Marquand in 1883. Its survival highlights the enduring appeal of Murano's artistry, blending functionality with refined beauty for collectors and connoisseurs alike.