The Seguso family remains a cornerstone to this timeless Venetian art form

The craft of glassmaking is often associated with Murano, however the centuries-old art form originally took root in Venice during the 8th century. It was only later, after a series of fires caused by glassmaking furnaces, that artisans were relocated to Murano in the late 13th century. Over time, the island became the epicenter of glass innovation, pioneering groundbreaking techniques such as crystal-clear glass, the multicolored patterns of millefiori and sparkling aventurine. Many of the families that continue to uphold this prestigious craft were established in the 19th and 20th centuries, carefully passing down their knowledge and artistry through generations.

One family stands out, boasting an unbroken lineage of 23 generations of master glassmakers. Seguso Vetri d’Arte, founded in 1397, is one of the oldest and most revered names in Murano glassmaking. Today, its legacy is upheld by brothers Pierpaolo and Giandandrea Seguso. For over six centuries, their family has preserved traditional techniques while contributing to the creation of extraordinary glassworks that blend craftsmanship with artistic innovation. The Seguso name has been synonymous with mastery: their grandfather, Archimede Seguso, was hailed as “the greatest master glassmaker of the last century,” while their father was celebrated as both a “great innovator” and “the poet of glass.” The brothers continue this lineage of excellence. As Pierpaolo reflects, “I often think about what my father, grandfather, or even earlier generations would think of our works, projects, and challenges. We are living the same life at different times.”

Over the years, Seguso Vetri d’Arte has collaborated with renowned architects, crafted pieces for the Vatican and royal families, and designed glassworks for leading fashion and design houses. One that Pierpaolo fondly unveils to us is work with architect Peter Marino, for a sculpture that inspired the handles of the Dior boutiques worldwide. Seguso Vetri D’arte lighting also features at The Frick Collection as well as in the ballroom at The Pierre Hotel in New York, while some of the precious glass works created by Seguso are exhibited at design and decorative arts museums such as the British Museum in London, MoMA, and the Tokyo’s Museum of Modern Art. 

Last year, Seguso Vetri d’Arte celebrated the 70th anniversary of the Compasso d’Oro award, the world’s oldest and most prestigious design accolade. The company received the award in 1954, under the presidency of famed designer Gio Ponti, for the creation of the Vaso Blu Rubino (Ruby Blue Vase). This iconic piece, designed by Flavio Poli and brought to life by Angelo Seguso, showcases the art of layering contrasting colors of glass without blending them—a technique that remains influential to this day. Ruminating on this innovation, Pierpaolo shares his father’s philosophy, “Being copied is the ultimate compliment. If you are copied, you are leading.”

Seguso Vetri d’Arte continues to produce unique and extraordinary pieces, preserving the tradition of Murano glassmaking while looking to the future. Through its commitment to experimentation, innovation and collaboration, the Seguso family remains a cornerstone of this timeless Venetian art form.