Murano barovier and toso chandelier with 8 light arms

Beautiful Murano glass chandelier made by the renowned firm of Barovier & Toso. Circa 1940. Works well.
The history of Barovier & Toso has its roots in the heart of the Venetian lagoon, on the island of Murano, the world's cradle of glassmaking. It all began in the 13th century, when the Barovier family, originally from Treviso, settled in Murano in 1295, shortly after the decree of the Republic of Venice mandated the consolidation of glass workshops on the island to avoid fire risks. Among the first master glassmakers in the family, Angelo Barovier (15th century) distinguished himself by inventing "cristallo" glass, a transparent and colorless material that revolutionized the glassmaking industry and established Murano's reputation worldwide. The Toso family, for its part, is documented in Murano as early as 1350, also perpetuating exceptional artisanal expertise. Over the centuries, the Barovier and Toso families became key figures in Venetian craftsmanship, passing down unique techniques and a keen sense of innovation from generation to generation. The turning point came in 1936, when Vetreria Artistica Barovier, headed by Ercole Barovier, merged with SAIAR Ferro Toso. This merger gave rise to Barovier & Toso, officially founded in 1942. The company quickly established itself as one of the most prestigious in Murano, combining tradition and modernity.
Ercole Barovier (1889–1974), Angelo's grandson, embodied the creative soul of this dynasty. After studying medicine and a brief career as a radio operator during the First World War, he joined the family business in 1920 and became its artistic director. A trained chemist and visionary artist, he developed revolutionary techniques, such as murrine (mosaic glass), and designed over 25,000 models, from lighting fixtures to vases and bold decorative objects. Under his leadership, Barovier & Toso won numerous international awards and established itself as a symbol of Italian design, blending the heritage of Art Nouveau and Art Deco with a resolutely modern aesthetic.

Today, Barovier & Toso continues this legacy while adapting to contemporary demands. The company, still based in Murano, is renowned for its blown glass creations, elegant lighting fixtures, and unique pieces, exported worldwide. In 2015, the Barovier family sold a majority stake to Rinaldo Invernizzi, ensuring the company's long-term viability while preserving its artisanal expertise. Barovier & Toso remains a symbol of Italian excellence, where each piece tells a story of passion, innovation, and tradition.

Ref: AVIUQR73B4