by Caroline Legrand
Milan, late 16th century. Shell-shaped "nef" vase (in the form of a ship), rock crystal and silver gilt, 16 x 15.5 x 14 cm/6.3 x 6.1 x 5.5 in. Estimate: €60,000/80,000
After Byzantium fell in 1204, Venice took over oriental glassmaking techniques and became the main production center in the West. By the 15th century, this industrial and artistic domination was flourishing. But though the City of the Doges fought hard to keep its monopoly, other Italian cities soon began making their own products, which became highly popular during the Renaissance. Read more