Barovier & Toso, Brand and Tradition
Barovier & Toso represents centuries of tradition, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless luxury in lighting. Each piece is entirely handmade by expert Murano glassmakers, renowned worldwide.
This historic Italian brand is a global symbol of excellence in interior lighting. Since 1295, it has shaped the history of Italian glass and lighting design.
What began as a family of glassblowers has evolved into a leading name in luxury decor, lighting, and design—blending heritage with creativity.
Design and Trends
Based in Venice, Barovier & Toso specializes in artistic glass lighting and holds the record as one of the world’s oldest operating companies.
The story begins with the Barovier family, originally from Treviso, who moved to Murano in the 13th century. Historic records trace their early work as skilled glassblowers.
In 1878, Benvenuto and Giuseppe Barovier re-established the company, sparking innovation and expansion. By the late 1800s, they introduced fused Murrine designs, producing abstract and floral motifs.
In the early 1900s, they patented new techniques such as mother-of-pearl and carnelian red glass. Later, Ercole Barovier, son of Benvenuto, took creative leadership. In 1942, after merging with F.lli Toso, the company became Barovier & Toso.
Ercole revolutionized production by introducing hot-coloring techniques, eliminating the melting phase.
Today, one of the company’s key sites is Palazzo Contarini in Murano, which hosts a museum dedicated to Barovier & Toso’s history and artistic legacy.
The Collections
The production of Venetian crystal is a multi-day process. It begins with blending raw materials, followed by an overnight melt and detailed cold-finishing over several days.
Skilled artisans shape each piece using traditional tools like rods, pincers, and blowpipes. While some elements are free-blown, others are formed using molds made of wood or iron.
After shaping, the hot glass—still around 500°C—is slowly cooled in an annealing oven. Once hardened, the piece enters the grinding department, where it is cut and polished using advanced tools.
The final steps include washing, inspection, and pre-assembly before packing and delivery. Each stage reflects centuries-old expertise and eco-conscious practices.
Barovier & Toso’s unique glass contains no lead or arsenic. This sustainable formula ensures that Venetian Crystal stands out globally for safety, beauty, and artisanal purity.
All glass components are made in Murano, while metal parts and other details are crafted in different Italian regions. The brand guarantees full authenticity and premium quality.
The Collaborations
One of Barovier & Toso’s most iconic creations is the Taif chandelier, designed in 1980 for the Saudi king’s palace in Taif. Commissioned through a French studio, the piece merges Parisian elegance with Venetian tradition.
Still part of the collection, Taif is a symbol of timeless excellence. It is available in various sizes—6, 9, 12, or 18 lights—with wall options featuring 2 or 5 lights. Metal finishes include gold and chrome.
Barovier & Toso offers a wide selection of chandeliers, pendants, wall lamps, floor and table lamps. Their signature glass and rich colors create a magical, refined atmosphere in any space.
Each design is crafted to enhance interiors with a personal, emotional touch. The Hermitage model, for example, consists of five interconnected chandeliers, designed as a modular ceiling light. Its pastoral charm makes it ideal for layered, custom lighting schemes.
The Barovier & Toso Palace
Located on the banks of the Rio dei Vetrai, the Barovier & Toso Palace celebrates the brand’s bond with Murano’s historic glassmaking tradition.
Thanks to Milan-based studio Calvi Brambilla, the former industrial building has been transformed into a refined space of design and history.
The new showroom spans three levels and narrates the evolution of the brand, from 1295 to today. Each floor features custom interiors that blend ancient Venetian elements—like wood paneling and mosaic flooring—with modern aesthetics.
The project honors Murano craftsmanship, offering a space where tradition meets contemporary design. Visitors experience first-hand the elegance and passion behind more than 700 years of glassmaking mastery.
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