Who Discovered Glassblowing?

Ever wondered who discovered glassblowing? The modern art of glassblowing may use modern equipment, but the essence of working with glass remains an ancient art. Throughout history the basic knowledge and techniques of glassblowing have been highly coveted. At times they have been held sacred by only a select few.

Glassblowing origins link back to the Roman Empire. Around 300 BC the blowpipe was invented and from this point on the Roman Empire created new techniques for making glass vessels. New formulas for colour were invented as well as mold blowing and other techniques.

Glass Blowing in Venice & Murano

Venice became the centre of glass making during the middle ages. The government wanted to control the knowledge and trade of glass. For this reason it forced all Venetian glassblowers to move to the island of Murano in 1291.

While in exile the Murano glassblowers developed an incredibly clear glass called ‘Cristalo’. Moreover they created new vivid colours such as deep blue, amethyst and emerald.

Many Venetian glassblowers managed to escape Murano. They spread their new techniques and colours throughout Europe and parts of Asia.

Renaissance

In the Renaissance period glassblowing techniques spread and developed throughout Europe. The first widely available textbook on glassblowing, was Arte Vetraria (The Art of Glass). It was published in Italy in the 17th century. At that point window glass, glass bottles and glass drinking vessels became more common and they were readily accessible for the average person.

Mechanical Presses

In the late 1800s mechanical presses were invented. That made the functional glass production faster and easier on a global scale. By the end of the 19th century glass bottles, jars, drinking vessels, flower vases and other homeware could be found in most homes.

Studio Glass Movement

In the 1960s the studio glass movement started in America. Individual artists opened their own glassblowing studios. They ran them  independently to pursue their own artistic visions and develop new techniques for glassblowing, casting and carving. This movement spread and it still continues across the globe today.