Named for the Italian word chiocciola, meaning “snail,” this series by Lino Tagliapietra draws on the elegant spiral of a snail’s shell. The title reflects the connection between mollusk geometry and the swirling patterns of each vessel. Meticulously formed with zanfirico cane—a traditional Venetian technique of twisted filigree—the fine lines create a flowing rhythm, balancing nature, craftsmanship, tradition, and innovation.

A compact, spherical Avventurina vessel, Its surface glimmers with metallic sparkles and colorful stripes. Hints of blue weave through the design, lending the piece a subtle sense of mystery and singular elegance.

Besides its shape, this piece stands out within the series for its dual technique: inside, the piece incorporates canes visible on the collar, while on the outside, Maestro Tagliapietra used murrine in soft, varied colors that create a sense of movement.

The Cantu series, first developed in 1999 and revived in 2007, marks a key moment in this body of work. The Maestro explored tradition and innovation through a delicate, lace-like pattern of precisely arranged twisted glass canes, referencing the Italian town of Cantu, renowned for its lace. Combined with the incalmo technique, the result is a harmonious blend of form, texture, and color, exemplifying the series’ timeless grace and technical mastery.

This piece was created using a refined technique in which delicately crossed bands of glass form a rhythmic pattern. At each intersection, a subtle battuto finish was applied, producing countless small, irregular circular marks. The interplay of pink, red, and transparent tones enhances the luminous weave of color and light. Its simple, elegant form focuses attention on the complexity of the technique. The name evokes traditional Scottish jacket patterns, reinterpreted in glass.

Avventurina is a historic Murano glassblowing technique from the 17th century, involving the

careful addition of copper or metal shavings to molten glass to create a shimmering, jewel-like

effect. The process demands precise temperature control, timing, and deep knowledge of the

material. The Maestro takes the technique further by layering additional colors, as evident in

this exquisite artwork.

For this artwork, Maestro Tagliapietra combined the elegant silhouette of the Fenice vessel with a refined, luminous white palette, creating a serene visual foundation. At the center, he introduced a striking accent of color through vibrant blue Florencia murrine, adding a lively focal point that enhances both the harmony and the expressive energy of the piece.