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Vittorio Costantini
Calle Buranelli, 30121 Venice, Italy
(39) 041-522-2265
On a narrow alley in the working class area of the Cannaregio district is a small shop and workroom where one of the city’s great glassmakers works. Vittorio Costantini, who was born on Burano to a lace maker and a fisherman, began his glass apprenticeship in a factory on Murano at the age of 11. Before he was 20, though, he knew the he wanted to craft glass objects in a more precise fashion and began creating creatures that are now collected by institutions like Corning and displayed in museums as far away as Japan. His display cases reveal insects, fish and birds, from miniscule black ants to elaborate jelly fish and rainbow trout, which glisten as though under water.
You will usually find Vittorio laboring over a new specimen behind a row of field guides, which he consults for accuracy. He will not ship his treasures, so buyers must pick up in person and some come a few times a year to do so. There are glass pendants and earrings for less than €20 and elaborate beetles or sea scenes that may cost thousands. Come with kids old enough not to touch break anything and one of our recommended guides, who can translate.
Written by Indagare
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