Glossario tecnico

Blown glass

The glass is first collected from the furnace with the blowtube ("canna") measuring approximately 1.5 m in length. The Master blows air from the end of the tube and via the drilling reaches the glassy mass, which is then modelled.

Gather

An action the Master performs by approaching the furnace, to collect the vitreous mass desired and to then shape it

Pliers

With various forms and uses, they are used to shape the vitreous mass.

"Scagno"

A wooden stool, with two side supports for holding the tube horizontal. As regards the "scagni" to this day a hierarchy remains that must be properly respected. Each Master has his own "scagno", and nobody but him has the permission to use it.

"Piazza" (Team)

Group of glassblowers varying from 2 to 5, composed of the Master and servants. The servants are those who lift on the orders of the Master. Co-ordination and understanding among them is extremely important.

Mouth of the furnace

An opening that allows the vitreous mass to be gathered within the furnace. Of various measurements, usually arched, they are from a minimum of 25 cm up to 80 cm.

Furnace

Usually circular, it may have various mouths, which may in their turn contain various colours. Each "piazza" works in front of its own mouth.

Pot

A ceramic refractory material container that holds the molten glass. This is found inside the furnace.