These small Murano glass seashells were manufactured in the 1970s as cabinet pieces. Stylistically, they draw on the early traditions of Venetian glass which celebrated marine life and delicacy of execution as well as the mid-century modern revival of the glass-maker’s art which relied on organic shapes, color play and simplicity. Learning techniques from their Islamic and Byzantine trading partners, Venetians were suppliers of fine glass to the Church and Medieval elites across Europe as early as the 8th Century. Due to recurrent fires however, a law was passed in 1291 concentrating the industry on the island of Murano. Bending to the demand of post-World War II tourism, and with the entry of Chinese duplicates into the international marketplace, Murano glass has faced the challenges of mass production. Our three shells are reminders that there are still individual artists working in conscious deference to a living past. Condition: Excellent. Dimensions: Approximately 3" each.