Mid century glass is a beautiful collectible that can inspire an entire room. Mid century glass refers to glass created between the 1940s and 1970s. This renaissance of glass making, often done by hand-blowing the pieces, took place all over Europe and America.
Some of the most famous mid century glass comes from Murano, Italy, which is an island off of Venice. Murano has been known for centuries as a glass century. In the 1950s and 60s their iconic swirled glass, often flecked with silver and gold, was brought back to the States by post-war American tourists. Ashtrays, bowls, and vases, easily imported in a suitcase decorated shelves and coffee tables in chic American homes in the mid 20th century.
Other mid century glass centers included the Scandinavian countries of Denmark, Sweden and Norway. Scandinavian glass is known for its more simple shape and translucent colors and was both hand-blown and molded.
Because of the beautiful colors, patterns and shapes of mid-century glass is great inspiration for a color palette and décor. Rugs, carpeting and pillows can make colorful accents based on mid-century glass. A collection of mid-century glass on a table, shelf or console can be grouped together by color for a strong pop of color in a living room or dining room. Shelves lined with pieces or a single piece on a coffee table, mid-century glass is a beautiful addition to modern, contemporary or transitional space. The popularity of mid-century glass means that copies can be found new at national home décor stores and major retailers.
