‘Incalmo’ is a glassmaking technique that allows the creation of an object made of distinct parts that are joined while the glass is hot.
This technique, in use in the Islamic world since the Middle Ages, requires great precision because the parts to be joined must have the same diameter and compatibility of colours and temperature.
Master Checco Ongaro created the Doge's Hat, exhibited in the Thomas Stearns at Venini exhibition, using the double ‘incalmo’ technique, applying it twice to the same piece.
Thomas Stearns at Venini, Doge's Hat vases. Photo: Enrico Fiorese