The artistic tradition of Murano glass combines a respect for the achievements of the past with a passion for technical and stylistic experimentation. Murano artists have found inspiration in both ancient classical forms and modern styles. For an example of the classical influence on Murano glass, compare the two images above. The Libellula Vase in the Olnick Spanu collection (left), made in the early twentieth century, is a variation on the traditional drinking glass (right) made during the Roman Empire. To see how modern styles have influenced glassmaking in Murano, take a look at the brightly colored, flowered vase to the right. This vase reflect the bold abstract and organic patterns of a style known as “art nouveau” (called stile liberty in Italian) that was popular in the early twentieth century. Examples: Vittorio Zecchin, V.S.M. Cappellin Venini & C., Libellula, 1921-1925 (top left). Roman, Two-Handled Cup, late first to fourth century (top right). Guiseppe Barovier, Artisti Barovier, A murrine, ca. 1919 (bottom right). All photographs by Luca Vignelli.