Reticello Encalmo Bowls

Regarded as one of the most technically challenging techniques in a glassmaker’s repertoire, these pieces demonstrate Peter’s extraordinary skill as a maker. 

Reticello is a 16^th century Venetian technique where one cup of spiraled filigree glass canes is blown inside another of canes spiraling in the other direction. If done correctly, the intersecting canes trap a tiny pocket of air that results in a pattern of perfect bubbles as an integral aspect of the pattern.

Peter has brought a contemporary feel to these works through a sophisticated palette of soft greys, muted whites and earth tones not normally associated with this very traditional technique.

Recognised for their mastery, the Reticello Encalmo Bowls became selected entries for the Ranamok Glass Prize in 2004 and the Tom Malone Prize in 2005.

"It’s a dizzyingly complex process, fraught with moments of potential and sometimes spectacular disaster that can render days of work useless. It’s also been the perfect opportunity to gain insight into that extraordinarily rich history of European glassmaking. There’s an audaciousness about reticello – and an inventiveness that greatly appeals to me." 

PB