VENINI. Italy, 1982. Blown glass vase. Signed and dated on the base. Procedure: Private Collection, Spain between 1970-1990. Measurements: 28 cm (height) x 15 cm (diameter). This ornamental blown glass vase is a direct heir to the glassmaking tradition of the Venetian island of Murano, one of the most important historical centres of glass production in the history of Europe. It subtly and elegantly combines the colours blue and red, arranged in a helical format. Paolo Venini was an important designer in Murano glass production, as well as a notable contributor to 20th century design. Together with Giaccomo Capellin, owner of an antique shop in Milan, Venini opened a glass factory on the islands of Murano, the historic centre of glass production in the Venice lagoon, under the name Vetri Soffiati Muranesi Cappellin Venini & Co. Venini himself was involved in the design of several of the firm's best-known products, including the famous "fazzoletto" (handkerchief) series which he created with designer Fulvio Bianconi. After Venini's death in 1959, the company was continued by other members of the family, only to be sold in 1985.