Beautiful set of 3 old Empoli decanters.

Formats: 8 x 8 x 44cm   -   12 x 12 x 31cm   -   10 x 10 x 19 cm

Empoli Carafes: The Art of Glassware from Tuscany

Empoli decanters are an iconic symbol of Italian glassmaking, particularly from the region of Tuscany, where the city of Empoli has been known for its glass production for centuries. The history of Empoli glasses dates back to the Renaissance, and although the city was once mainly known for producing practical glassware, it has now positioned itself as a centre for artistic glassware, including the famous Empoli decanters.

The Origins of Empoli Glass Empoli.

located in the Tuscany region, has a long tradition of glass production dating back to the 16th century. In medieval and early modern times, the region was known for glass production, but it was not until the 19th and 20th centuries that Empoli put itself on the international map as a centre for handmade glass. The influence of Venice, which was the world centre of glass production, was strong, but Empoli developed its own style that was distinguished by simplicity, sophistication and the characteristic Tuscan flair.

Features of Empoli Carafes

Empoli decanters are especially famous for their colourful and artistic designs. These decanters are often handmade, which means that each piece is unique. Traditional Empoli decanters are usually made of clear or coloured glass and often decorated with patterns of bubbles, ridges or drop-shaped ornaments that give the glass an organic, almost sculptural look. Most of these decanters have a graceful, flowing shape, with a long neck and an elegant pouring opening, making them both practical and aesthetic objects. One of the most striking features of Empoli decanters is the use of colour. Empoli glassblowers often used rich, vibrant colours, from amber and greens to shades of blue and even more bold colours such as fuchsia and orange. This made Empoli glass a popular choice for decoration in the 1960s and 1970s, an era when the Italian design movement flourished.

Design and Function.

Although Empoli decanters were originally designed for serving wine, oil or vinegar, today they are also popular collectibles. The aesthetic value of these decanters, often seen as a kind of 'art objects', has made them find a place in many households and museums worldwide over the years. The design of decanters can range from sleek and modern to more classical and baroque, depending on the style period of manufacture. In the 1950s and 1960s, Empoli decanters were often promoted as chic household accessories, and their popularity continued to rise well into the 20th century. Today, vintage Empoli decanters are highly sought after by collectors and interior designers, especially as retro design pieces. The Collectible aspect of Empoli Carafes Empoli decanters have become not only practical objects, but also popular collectibles. Vintage specimens from the 20th century are especially valuable for collectors of antique glass. Carafes produced by well-known Empoli glassmakers, such as the famous glassworks Fratelli Toso and Lenci, are often sought after for their aesthetic value and rarity. Collectors appreciate not only the handmade quality of the pieces, but also the way the decanters often reflect the fashion and design of their time. The different designs and colour schemes ensure that a suitable Empoli decanter can be found for every taste.