The Venini Bolle 502.02 mouthblown bottle, designed by Tapio Wirkkala, was first introduced in 1966. Today, this iconic bottle, along with others from the same collection, can be admired in esteemed art museums worldwide. Finnish designer Tapio Wirkkala conceived the original design during his collaboration with the renowned Venetian glassmaker Venini, rediscovering the ancient Incalmo technique in the process.
Incalmo—which means “fusion” in Italian—is a complex method of fusing two molten glass elements of the same diameter but different colors. This process can be repeated multiple times, resulting in stunning glass objects with bands of contrasting hues. At the base of each Bolle bottle, a raised feature is intentionally incorporated, symbolizing the graceful bounce of a water droplet. This striking detail not only adds to the bottle’s aesthetic appeal but also showcases the extraordinary skill and precision of Venetian glassblowers.
The Venini Bolle collection remains a lasting tribute to Wirkkala’s visionary design and the timeless artistry of Venetian glassmaking, reflecting both innovation and tradition.
Venini Bolle details
- Brand: Venini
- Collection: Bolle
- Material: Murano glass
- Color: grey and violet
- Height: 21 cm / 8.26 in
- Diameter: 13 cm / 5.11 in
- Design: Tapio Wirkkala
About Designer
Tapio Wirkkala, an influential Finnish artist and designer, played a key role in elevating Finnish design on the global stage. By the time he began creating pieces for VENINI in the 1960s, Wirkkala was already widely recognized for his innovative work across multiple design fields. His collaboration with VENINI marked an exciting phase in his career, particularly as he revived the historic “Incalmo” technique, often blending it with “Mezzafiligrana” and “Murrine” techniques. Thanks to his creative vision and the skill of Murano’s glassmakers, Wirkkala’s works are now celebrated in major art and design museums worldwide.