The iconic Murano mushroom lamp we love
It’s irresistible with its cute shape that attracts attention around the world. The lamp that looks like a mushroom, and that has become popular for that very reason. We can’t get enough of the iconic Murano mushroom lamp, so we think it deserves a proper introduction.
Who designed the Murano mushroom lamp?
Mario Gambaro and Bruno Poggi are the ones to thank for this beautiful lamp. The two Italians designed it under the name Gambaro e Poggi for Vetri back in the 1970s with the idea of creating a distinctive lamp that could sit in the homes of those who appreciate a beautiful, artistic table lamp. It was produced only in limited numbers.
How do you recognize a Murano mushroom?
The mushroom table lamp is an exclusive affair, being vintage, and it takes incredible craftsmanship to make. The recognizable mushroom table lamp is mouth-blown from a single piece of glass, which, as most can imagine, requires strength and skilled hands to shape. Besides the shape, there is often a swirl pattern twisted into the glass that decorates it. The pattern is an absolute delight to the eye when lit, and it’s even better because the pattern can usually be felt when running your hands over the glass. It’s a table lamp that appeals to the senses.
The mushroom lamp demands extensive work and fine craftsmanship to form, and we can emphasize that it takes 10 years for the glassblower to complete an apprenticeship and work with Murano glass. It takes a long time to master the craft, and most glass techniques require enormous precision and practice. Some Murano techniques take a long time to work with before the result is finished. That’s why a Murano mushroom lamp, and Murano glass in general, is an expensive affair to deal with, but it’s also what we appreciate about Murano lamps.
Mushroom lamps in beautiful shades
If you’ve fallen for a mushroom table lamp, you’ve likely also fallen for the lovely colors the lamp comes in, but they can be hard to get hold of. A strong pink or blue lamp can make anyone happy. The bold colors of the lamps draw attention, whether you see them in the living room or in your Instagram feed, where the lamp also circulates. The colors are created by minerals added to the glass. If the color isn’t for you, the mushroom lamp is also available in white, which is neither less interesting nor boring to look at.
Next time you see a vintage Murano mushroom lamp, you’ll know the craftsmanship behind it, and that the lamp brings both history and nostalgia into the room. To the question of why the mushroom lamp is still popular today so many years later, we must answer that it does more than just provide light. A vintage lamp always brings a story with it, and that gives food for thought.
There are many reasons to love the iconic table lamp from Murano in Italy, and we can’t contain our excitement when we see one. We will continue to love the lamp for many years to come.
Vintage mushroom lamps from Murano
The original vintage mushroom lamps from Murano were produced from the 1960s to the 1980s and are now sought-after collector’s items. A genuine vintage Murano mushroom lamp is characterized by mouth-blown glass with visible variations in color and shape — no two lamps are exactly alike. At Vetro we have a rotating selection of authentic vintage mushroom lamps in various sizes and colors.
Find your Murano mushroom lamp
See our selection of Murano mushroom lamps and table lamps, or explore our full collection of Murano lamps. Want to learn more about the history of the glass? Read our complete guide to Murano glass.
