Light and Poetry: the art of Giuseppe Briati’s chandeliers in 18th century Venice
Giuseppe Briati, born in Murano in 1686, was not only a skilled glassmaker but a true innovator who revolutionized Murano art in the 18th century. His stylistic signature was the crystalline quality of the glass,the elegance of the forms, and the richness of the decorations. But his genius shone particularly in the creation of chandeliers, which became the symbol of the luxury and refinement of the era
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The invention of the “Chioche”
Briati was the father of the “chioche”, the crystal and metal chandeliers that made Murano famous throughout the world. With his inventiveness, he transformed these lighting objects into true sculptures of light. His “chioche” were characterized by sinuous arms, embellished with leaves, flowers, and fruits in colored glass, which created an effect of stunning naturalism.
An International success
The fame of Briati’s chandeliers soon crossed the borders of the Serenissima. European courts vied to secure his creations: from Vienna to Paris, from Madrid to St. Petersburg, Briati’s “chioche” illuminated the most prestigious palaces. It is said that even Empress Maria Theresa of Austria owned a Briati chandelier with as many as 84 candles.
Between Art and Technique
But Briati was not only an artist, he was also an innovator from a technical point of view. He perfected the composition of the crystal, making it purer and more transparent, and experimented with new processing techniques, such as the use of molds for flowers and leaves. His furnace became a true research laboratory, where art and science merged to give life to masterpieces of unparalleled beauty.
The legacy of a Master
When Briati passed away in 1772, he left as a legacy not only his chandeliers but also his knowledge. In his furnace, the best master glassmakers of the time were trained, who would carry on his art for generations. Even today, Briati-style chandeliers are among the most sought-after and appreciated, a testament to a timeless elegance that continues to shine, like crystal, with its own light.
Thus, every time we raise our eyes to admire a Murano chandelier, it is a bit like paying homage to the genius of Giuseppe Briati, the master who knew how to transform glass into pure, sparkling poetry.
