"Murano Glass Aquarium" by Elio Rafaelli

This charming Murano glass aquarium by Elio Raffaeli presents a lively underwater scene encased within a clear, organically shaped glass form. A variety of brightly coloured fish—rendered in red, yellow, blue, and green—appear to swim among delicate strands of aquatic plants rising from a richly textured seabed. The base features vibrant coral-like formations in contrasting hues, adding depth and visual interest. Air bubbles suspended throughout enhance the illusion of movement and water. The gently undulating rim frames the composition, while the clarity of the glass allows light to animate the scene. Both decorative and playful, the piece exemplifies Murano’s tradition of imaginative glass artistry. Signed to base E Rafaelli and and with Murano label to the fore

 

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ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Height:                                      16 cm                  


Width:                                      20 cm                  


Depth:                                      5 cm                  


Condition:                               Excellent Original Condition


Circa:                                         1965


Materials:                                Hand Blown Coloured Glass


SKU:                                           6867


ABOUT

Elio Raffaeli - Italian 1936 ~ 2006  was a 20th-century Murano glass artist associated with the rich tradition of Venetian studio glassmaking. Active primarily during the mid to late 20th century, he worked within the vibrant post-war Murano industry, a period marked by both technical innovation and strong commercial production.

Raffaeli is most often linked with firms such as A.Ve.M. (Arte Vetraria Muranese), where many skilled artisans contributed to the production of decorative and sculptural glass. His work is typically associated with colourful, hand-blown pieces, including aquarium-style glass objects featuring submerged fish and aquatic motifs, as well as abstract and decorative forms. These works reflect Murano’s enduring fascination with fluid movement, light, and colour.

Murano Glass

The history of Murano glass is a tale of artistic ingenuity and innovation, rooted in the small Venetian island of Murano, Italy. Dating back to the late 13th century, the glassmaking industry in Murano evolved as a strategic move to protect the city of Venice from the risk of fires caused by glass furnaces. Murano's glass artisans were required to relocate to the island, where they refined their craft in isolation.

Over the centuries, Murano glassmakers became masters of their trade, pioneering techniques such as crystalline glass, enameling, and millefiori. The Renaissance period witnessed Murano glass achieving unprecedented levels of sophistication, with intricate designs and vibrant colors becoming hallmarks of the art form. Murano's glass industry continued to flourish through the Baroque and Rococo eras, and its reputation for producing exquisite chandeliers, mirrors, and decorative glassware spread across Europe.

Despite economic challenges and competition, Murano glass has endured, remaining a symbol of Italian craftsmanship and artistic excellence. Today, Murano glass continues to captivate collectors and enthusiasts worldwide, honoring a legacy that spans over seven centuries.

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