Italian glassmakers Venini launched a collection of hand-blown vases by London designers Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby.

Lanterne Marine by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby:

Launched at the Salone Internazionale Del Mobile 2009, Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby’s first major commission for Murano glassmakers Venini are on display at the Venini Showroom in Milan. The six, limited edition, hand-blown, glass vases comprise three vase designs, each available in two colour versions.

It was through the frequent boat trips from the Venetian mainland to the island of Murano that this project was conceived. ‘We were inspired by the metal frames that are used for protecting hanging lamps on boats around the Venetian Lagoon. Metal bands are also used in the construction of the timber posts and buoys that mark the traffic lanes,’ says Osgerby.

The aluminium frames surrounding the vases are intended to evoke the vernacular nautical objects found around Murano. The circular frames are attached to an aluminium disk that separates the base and top. Each base and top are blown in a range of special Venini colours which interlock to create new colours through layering. The open calyx-like tops are intended to hold the flower stems.

Barber and Osgerby’s relationship with Venini began eight years ago whilst designing architectural elements for Stella McCartney’s flagship store in New York. Through the ongoing working relationship, Barber and Osgerby have become fascinated by the elemental nature of glass making and the ancient craft skills of the Venini experts.

‘Lanterne Marine extends the themes that we have been experimenting with in other areas of our work. The project combines explorations of detailed handcraft with engineering. It expands upon our longstand-ing interest in nautical design and our fascination with colour composition, transparency and layering,’ says Barber.