S.A.L.I.R. – Studio Ars et Labor Industrie Riunite: Contemporary Glass-Decorating on Murano, 1923–1993

In 1924, five young Italians founded S.A.L.I.R. to modernize glass-decorating. In 1928, Franz Pelzel and Guido Balsamo Stella started producing contemporary glass-engraving. Marc Heiremans illustrates the artistic evolution of S.A.L.I.R. through drawings and photographs, revealing important developments in Muranos glass-making history.

Format: Hardback
Length: 272 pages
Publication date: 25 January 2024
Publisher: Arnoldsche

In 1924, a group of five young Italians founded the Studio Ars et Labor Industrie Riunite (S.A.L.I.R.), with a noble aim to modernize the ancient art of glass decorating. The founding members included Giuseppe Dallapia, Decio Toso, Guglielmo Barbini, Dino Martens, and Gino Francesconi. Their vision was to breathe new life into this traditional craft and bring it into the contemporary era.

The journey of S.A.L.I.R. truly began to flourish in 1928 when the studio welcomed two remarkable artists: Franz Pelzel, a Bohemian glass engraver, and Guido Balsamo Stella, an all-round artist. This collaboration marked the beginning of a production era that is now widely celebrated and remembered for its contemporary glass engraving.

However, the story of S.A.L.I.R. took an interesting turn after Balsamo Stella's departure in 1932. Franz Pelzel assumed the role of the primary designer, occasionally collaborating with other renowned artists to create stunning designs. Heiremans, drawing from the factory's archives, has meticulously illustrated the artistic evolution of S.A.L.I.R. through a series of drawings and period photographs.

This book serves as both a catalogue raisonné and an in-depth study, shedding light on some of the paramount developments in Murano's glass-making history. It provides a captivating glimpse into the studio's creative journey, showcasing the evolution of glass engraving techniques and the influence of various artists on the studio's output.

The founders of S.A.L.I.R. had a profound understanding of the potential of glass as a medium for artistic expression. They embraced the challenges of working with this delicate material and pushed the boundaries of what was possible in glass decorating. Their dedication and passion for their craft have left a lasting legacy, inspiring generations of artists and craftsmen to continue exploring the endless possibilities of glass art.

In conclusion, the Studio Ars et Labor Industrie Riunite (S.A.L.I.R.) was a pioneering force in the world of glass decorating. Founded by a group of talented Italians in 1924, the studio played a crucial role in modernizing this ancient art form. Through the collaboration of Franz Pelzel and Guido Balsamo Stella, S.A.L.I.R. produced some of the most iconic and celebrated glass engravings of the 20th century. The studio's artistic evolution, documented by Marc Heiremans in this book, is a testament to the enduring legacy of glass art and the creative spirit of its founders.

Weight: 1791g
Dimension: 300 x 235 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9783897906938