Introduction
Collecting glass animal figurines is a popular hobby, both because people love cute animals and because they admire beautiful and radiant objects, which are perfectly represented by blown glass. Murano glass animals figurines are particularly well-crafted and artistic, and a lot of work goes into creating them. This makes them an excellent object for collecting because they retain their value and stay popular over time. They can be considered works of art; while they are generally small, they are intricate and detailed. They are created by hand using glass-blowing techniques by master artisans on the island of Murano, close to Venice.
Whether you are thinking about starting a collection of Murano glass animals figurines or are already collecting them, this article will offer you tips to start and expand your collection.
A Brief History of Murano Glass Animal Figurines
Murano held the monopoly on the creation of glass figurines until the early 19th century. At first, lampworking was used, meaning that the glass was melted using an oil lamp. Molten glass was then shaped into the figurine using basic tools. However, glass blowing soon became a popular method for creating larger sculptures, and different techniques were used. One of the most popular was millefiori. This technique involves heating glass rods of different colors. When the rods have fused, the glass is cooled and then cut in cross-sections to produce designs, often flowery.
During the 19th and 20th centuries, glassware companies in other countries started to produce glass animal figurines. These included Molineux & Webb in England, Birmini Glass in Austria, Moser in Czechoslovakia, Boden in Sweden, Hadeland in Norway, Steuben Glass Works in the US, and Swarovski in Austria. This, however, did not stop Murano glass artisans from continuing to create glass animals figurines.
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How to Build a Collection of Murano Glass Animal Figurines
There are many ways of deciding how to begin your glass animals collection. These are a few of the most popular.
Type
You could choose to build your collection around one type of animal, such as a cat or a dog, a bird, a fish, or even fantasy animals, such as dragons or unicorns. Another idea is to focus on a group of similar animals, such as those found in the wild. Create a sea scene with dolphins, octopuses, crabs, and fish, or a grouping of water birds such as herons, ducks, and swans.
If you have a cabinet with several shelves, you can put different animals or groups of animals on each shelf. This also has the benefit of keeping the figurines safe from breakage.
Color Scheme
Another option is to choose your glass animals figurines by color. This could be a color that matches your home decor, or a color scheme common to the figurines. An alternative is to focus your glass animal collection on the technique used, such as millefiori, sommerso, or bullicante.
Size
Glass animal figurines are generally very small. They can be as tiny as 1 inch, and generally, they don’t get much taller than 5 inches. You could decide to have a collection of figurines of the same size.
Artist
If you find an artist that you like, you could start a collection of their works. If you are lucky enough to be in Murano on vacation, visit different glass studios. In this way, you may discover an artist that you admire and can then build a glass animal collection around their work.
Where to Buy Murano Glass Animal Figurines
Murano
The best place to buy Murano glass animals figurines is in Murano itself. If you buy directly from the artisan’s studio, you will know that you got a genuine Murano glass figurine. Many counterfeits are being sold around the world, so you have to be diligent when buying outside the island.
Online
There are many companies online that sell Murano glass animal figurines. If you can’t get to Murano or want to add to the collection you started on the island, this is an easy way of purchasing them. However, always do your research and ensure that the company is reputable. If the company offers a certificate of authenticity for the piece, then all the better.
Trade Shows
At a dedicated glass trade show, glass companies showcase their products. They are good places to learn more about animal figurines and to purchase them.
Collectors Markets and Auctions
You don’t have to start your collection with new figurines. You can buy previously owned and vintage glass pieces, although if they are particularly sought after, they may cost more than you would pay for a new figurine. However, be cautious when purchasing, as it’s unfortunately easy to come across counterfeit items. Ask for a certificate of authenticity, look for a signature of the master, or, if neither is available, examine the figurine closely. Many techniques, such as millefiori, are difficult to forge and require fine craftsmanship and great skill, making it quite obvious when a piece is fake.
Popular Murano Glass Animal Figurines
Fish and Marine Animals
Murano glass artisans have always been and still are inspired by the sea, because of Venice’s tight historical connection to the Lagoon in which it’s built and to the Adriatic Sea. Not only do these artisans create fish figurines, but also other marine creatures such as seals, dolphins, and aquariums filled with sea life, not to mention sailboats. A combination of all or some of these can make a particularly stunning showpiece.
Many of the marine life figurines are brightly colored with swirling patterns, copying the movement of the sea. Perhaps choose colors that match each other.
Birds
Murano birds are also vibrantly colored and look lifelike. Make a collection of doves, ducks, chicks, or owls, or why not have a mixture? Choose water birds or land birds for your collection, or mix water birds with sea animals.
Animals
The cat and dog figurines capture the high-spirited and loving nature of our favorite pets, while the wild animals range from majestic lions to gentle, yet imposing elephants. Colors vary from clear gold to a mix of vivid colors, to plain white or black horses, cats, and elephants.
How to Display Your Glass Animal Figurines
To escalate the color and clarity of the glass figurines, or to highlight certain ones, use lighting to its best advantage. Optimum effects are created by using spotlights or backlights.
Glass animal figurines are delicate and breakable, so keep them away from high traffic. If you have a glass cabinet, display them inside where there is no chance of them being broken. This is especially important if you have children.
What to Look for When Buying Murano Glass Animal Figurines
You want to ensure that you are buying an authentic Murano glass figurine. If there is a certificate of authenticity, you will be assured that you are. However, not all pieces have this, even if they are authentic. There may be a signature on the piece, which is useful if you are collecting a particular artisan’s work and know their signature.
If you are buying a second-hand piece of glass, check that it doesn’t have chips or cracks. The figurine will hold its value better without any damage, which is useful if you ever want to sell your collection.
Look for one-of-a-kind or limited edition figurines, whether new or second-hand, as they are likely to appreciate as long as they are kept in excellent condition.
Why are Murano Glass Animal Figurines So Valuable?
Historical Importance
Murano glass has a long history, which has established it as the glassmaking center of the world. Murano’s beadmaking was added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage List in 2020, signifying that Murano glass is an important and traditional craft. Glass figurines have been made for centuries and have stood the test of time. Once just a product for the rich, these figurines are now accessible to a wider range of people.
Exceptional Craftsmanship
Each figurine is made by hand by skilled artisans, making them unique. Not one piece can be the same as another, even if it is in the tiniest detail. Figurines can be especially challenging to create because of their minute size, but the result of each creation is a work of art.
Unique Designs
One of the distinguishing characteristics of Murano glass figurines is that the designs are innovative and exciting. The use of different vivid colors creates striking visual effects, which draw the eye to the figurines, despite their size.
Symbolic Appeal
Many animals, birds, and fish have symbolic meanings, which can be important, especially when gifting. For example, birds represent freedom; fish, rebirth and transformation; dolphins, bonding, communication, and harmony; horses, strength, power, and freedom; and elephants, wisdom and protection.
Investment Potential
Murano glass figurines often appreciate over time, so they are a good investment. Antique and limited editions can fetch breathtaking prices in the market. Collectors are often looking for pieces by particular artisans or renowned studios such as Barovier & Toso. If you are looking for an investment, Murano glass animal figurines are a good choice.
Decorative Appeal
They are not only an investment, but are also sought after for their decorative appeal. They are charming and can elevate the atmosphere of any room. The intricate designs and bright colors make them timeless.
Caring for Your Murano Glass Animal Figurines
Proper care is essential to retain the value and the beauty of your glass animal collection. It is important to dust them regularly, but be careful not to use abrasive materials that could scratch the glass. Avoid keeping your figurines in direct sunlight, as this could make them discolor. The bright colors could even fade. Don’t handle them too much, as this can lead to accidents. Display the figurines on a stable surface to stop them from falling over and breaking, and, for extra safety, put them in a cabinet.
Other Companies Producing Glass Animal Figurines
Swarovski
Swarovski was founded in 1895 by Bohemian-born Austrian businessman, glazier, and jeweler, Daniel Swarovski. The company creates crystal glass, and in 1976, it produced its first glass figurines. It began with craftsmen making a mouse out of chandelier pieces. With the crystal mouse being gifted to the 1976 Winter Olympians, the crystal mouse became popular. The Company now creates all types of crystal glass animal figurines, including dogs, rabbits, owls, butterflies, tigers, and bears, which are very popular both as gifts and collector’s items.
Swarovski crystal figurines are cut and shaped by machinery and finished by hand. To enhance them, coatings and treatments may be applied, such as the Aurora Borealis coating, which creates a shimmering, rainbow effect.
Valletta Glass Company
Valetta Glass Company is a small, authentic Maltese glass maker. It was established in 1979 and creates its glass animal figurines by hand using glass-blowing techniques. It produces a variety of animals, including cats, pigs, elephants, and bears, as well as birds and fish.
Steuben Glass
Steuben Glass was opened in 1903 and is part of the Corning Glass Works in New York State. It produces glass animal figurines of the highest quality. They are expensive, but they are valued by collectors. Their figurines include koala bears, birds, alligators, and even dragons and phoenixes.
Final Thoughts
Collecting Murano glass animal figurines is a special hobby to have. Not only is there investment potential, but they are beautiful works of art that will enhance any space.
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