The known history of glassblowing on the island of Murano dates back to as early as 1083 when records show the existence of a studio belonging to master Pietro Fiolare. As nearby Venice was a major trading port, the earliest Murano work sometimes showed Asian influences. Utilitarian objects, including bowls, were the main output of the glassmaking studios by the mid 1200s when trade associations were formed. By the 1500s, the art of Filigrana, glass blown with an opaque core, had been developed. Collection of Murano glass became particularly popular by the 1950s. Bowls made of blown glass are still created by many studios on Murano.
Murano glass is a term widely used today to indicate that the glass bowl or other glass object is made in the style of actual Murano glass. However, much of the glassware sold today that is labeled Murano glass is not made in Italy, but rather in various Asian and sometimes South American countries.
A glass bowl made today in Murano will most likely have a holographic sticker with a number on it in order to identify which furnace the glass was made by, an initiative started by a consortium of glass blowers. Older bowls might have a gold foil seal that is oval-shaped and says, "Made in Murano, Italy."
Glassblowers set out to make a bowl by using a blow tube to inflate molten glass into a bubble-like shape, which is then configured into the desired bowl shape. Cristallo, a clear glass of particular transparency is often used as the base for a Murano glass bowl. Colors are created by adding metals, either singly or in combination. Sometimes the technique of millefiori is used in which layers of glass are used in order to create to create dotted or flower-like patterns.
A consumer who wants to buy a Murano-style glass bowl has many options, including online auctions sites. However, those individuals wanting to purchase an authentic glass bowl made in a Murano glass blowing studio should stick to a reputable dealer with a long tradition of sales in that field. When visiting Venice, it is possible to visit Murano glass factories and purchase glass bowls. Tourists should keep in mind that high pressure "tour guides" may offer free transportation to Murano in order to boost sales.