When we think of Venice,often the first thing that comes to mind is a romantic gondola ride in the canals listening to the aria of the gondolier and drinking in the beauty of the surrounding architecture. Other Venetian things we might consider are "Venetian blinds" and exquisite Italian Murano glass.
The early gondolas had a small cabin to protect the passengers from bad weather. Some believe the first "Venetian blinds" were the louvered shutters covering the windows of this small cabin. Others believe blinds originated in Egypt or Persia before Venice discovered them, but Venice gets the credit.
Glass making was a specialty for the Venetian craftsmen of the 13th century. Making colored and clear glass as well as mirror glass, the standard was set by these Italian artisans, but their secret formulas were eventually exposed, and later glassware was made all across Europe.
Venetian mirrors were first created in the 1700's for royalty and wealthy land owners. La Barge specializes in reproducing these 18th century mirrors, and ours are just as beautiful and highly prized as the original creations.
The La Barge hand-crafted Venetian mirrors, are made with the same attention to detail as our Italian counterparts. Each glass section is hand cut, beveled, wheel engraved and polished. The sections are then mirrored prior to assembly. As with all handmade articles, slight variations in the decoration are a natural result of the manufacturing process and, like the antique originals, are enhanced by such characteristics. Below are two examples of Venetian mirrors of different shapes.
The flat bottom makes this the perfect accent over an entry table or small sideboard. A pair of these would certainly add the unexpected over double sinks in the bathroom. Against dark walls, these would be sure to "pop." This one is 55" high and 28" wide.
The great thing about the Venetian mirror is that there is no dark frame to close in the freedom of form and flourishes.
This oval mirror has a crown similar to the first mirror, but that is where the similarity ends. It is a bit smaller at 40" high and 21"wide.
Both of these mirrors reflect light and sparkle on the wall as jewelry adds light and sparkle to an outfit.
Winter is here and we can only dream of a spring trip to Venice, but as we wait, we can enjoy what Venice has to offer -- Italian wine, food, art, glass and Italian-style mirrors.
La Barge... a reflection of all that you are. www.labargeinc.com
Love the pics :X
Posted by: rulouri exterioare aluminiu | 05/19/2011 at 06:14 AM