Crafted in 1966 by Finnish designer Tapio Wirkkala, the Venini Bolle bottle stands among Venini’s most celebrated designs. These pieces are treasured not only for their aesthetic elegance but also as iconic works of glass art, showcased in prestigious museums worldwide.
Venini Bolle details
- Brand: Venini
- Collection: Bolle
- Material: Murano glass
- Color: straw yellow and grass green
- Height: 25 cm / 9.84 in
- Diameter: 14 cm / 5.51 in
- Design: Tapio Wirkkala
Wirkkala’s design brought renewed attention to the ancient Incalmo technique, a fusion process that was once rarely used. This method, rooted in Italian glassmaking traditions, involves the delicate fusion of two differently colored glass elements, straw yellow and grass green, while they are still molten. The artisans at Venini use this technique to create seamless, concentric color bands, with the option to repeat the process, leading to endless possibilities of color layering and blending, enhancing each piece’s individuality.
At the base of each Bolle bottle, a subtle raised element mimics the bounce of a water droplet, symbolizing the inspiration drawn from nature and underscoring the skill of Venini’s glassblowers. This distinctive feature not only adds character but also highlights the exceptional craftsmanship involved. Each bottle stands as a tribute to Venetian glassmaking heritage, reflecting the fluidity and beauty of glass in motion.
The Incalmo technique is central to the Bolle design, with contrasting bands of color created by joining different glass sections of the same diameter. Each segment must be at precisely the right temperature and texture, requiring the glassblower to work with extreme precision. The resulting color bands are smooth, vibrant, and without interruption, embodying the high level of artistry required. This approach allows each Bolle bottle to be both functional and a unique work of art, showcasing glassmaking techniques honed over centuries and pushing the boundaries of traditional craftsmanship.
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.
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