26 Sep Italy vs. Sweden Glass Art: Venini, Orrefors & Kosta Boda

Glass has long been more than a material—it is a mirror of culture, tradition, and innovation. Across Europe, two countries in particular have shaped the story of glassmaking in unique and unforgettable ways: Italy and Sweden. At Hestia Glass, we celebrate the artistry of both, with timeless pieces from legendary brands like Venini, Orrefors, and Kosta Boda.

Italy

Venini: The Soul of Murano Glass

Founded in 1921 by Paolo Venini, the Venetian brand has become the beating heart of Murano glassmaking. For over a century, Venini’s Fornace has brought together the world’s finest glassmasters and artists, blending centuries-old Venetian tradition with contemporary design.

Venini pieces are instantly recognisable: vivid in colour, fluid in form, and always innovative. More than glass, they are expressions of Italian elegance, passion, and craftsmanship, admired and collected worldwide.

Sweden

Orrefors: Swedish Crystal Elegance

From the deep forests of Småland in southern Sweden, Orrefors emerged in the late 19th century as a global leader in crystal art. Its story is one of people, innovation, and nature, where glass reflects both cultural heritage and modern design.

Orrefors is synonymous with clarity, refinement, and Nordic minimalism. Each creation, whether delicate, heavy, transparent, or richly textured, embodies Sweden’s pursuit of craftsmanship and timeless beauty.

Kosta Boda: Bold Swedish Design

If Orrefors is elegance, Kosta Boda is boldness. Founded in 1742, it is one of Sweden’s oldest and most daring glassworks. Known for pushing creative boundaries, Kosta Boda blends functionality with artistic expression, producing both everyday collections and avant-garde art glass.

Its pieces are inspired by fashion, music, and contemporary life, reflecting courage, curiosity, and ingenuity. Kosta Boda’s glass is not only designed for the table or the home. It is made to spark conversation, celebrate individuality, and inspire modern living.

Italy vs. Sweden: Two Visions of Glass Art

Though born from different cultures, Venini, Orrefors, and Kosta Boda share a devotion to artistry, innovation, and timeless design. Venini speaks the language of Venetian tradition and Italian elegance. Orrefors reflects the purity and refinement of Swedish crystal. Kosta Boda dares to be progressive, bold, and artistic.
Together, they reveal the endless possibilities of glass: a material that is at once fragile and strong, ancient and modern, functional and poetic.

The Art of Collecting

At Hestia Glass, we believe these brands are not just glassmakers but also storytellers. Each vase, bowl, or sculpture is a piece of cultural heritage, an artwork that bridges tradition and contemporary design. Collecting Venini, Orrefors, or Kosta Boda is more than acquiring glass: it is embracing a legacy of beauty that continues to evolve.