Merit School Anversa

It was an amazing experience to host students from Antwerp's Merit High School at the Abate Zanetti Glass School. I am always happy to share my passion for glassmaking with young people and see their enthusiasm as they discover the secrets of this ancient tradition.

During their visit, I showed how a Murano glass handkerchief vase is made using the pulegoso technique, one of the most fascinating and distinctive techniques of Murano glass. The boys watched closely as I worked with the fused glass, creating the delicate folds and details that make each handkerchief vase unique.

But we didn't stop there. I wanted to offer students a more practical experience, so I gave them a chance to try making a crystal glass drop. Seeing them at work, with enthusiasm and concentration, was one of the most rewarding moments of the day. Some demonstrated a surprising natural ability, while others were simply fascinated by the process.

During our conversation, we also delved into the scientific aspects of glass processing, talking about chemistry and physics. We discussed how the chemical composition of glass affects its transparency and colour, and how temperature control is crucial to shaping glass without causing cracks or deformation. It was exciting to see students' interest in these technical aspects and their desire to learn more about this fascinating art.

I am grateful to the Lyceo Merit in Antwerp for choosing our school for this educational visit. I hope the experience inspired the students and ignited in them the passion for glass art, just as it happened to me many years ago. I am sure that some of them will return to Murano, perhaps as artists or scholars, and will help keep this wonderful tradition alive.