The Gaia collection consists of lighting spheres that bring back the classic Mid-century Murano pattern called Mezza Filigrana. It provides flexibility, allowing for a variety of groupings or the option to feature a single design.

The Mezza Filigrana technique, nearly forgotten over time, has been revived with custom hardware. Nine unique patterns have been created using Murano filigrana in Lattimo white, Black, Amber, and Red.

Each glass sphere measures 35 cm (14 inches) and is paired with modern hardware that clearly highlights the pattern. The design works well for creating clusters above a dining table, spreading out over an island, or hanging in a stairwell.

This specific piece features Black filigree canes, inspired by Carlo Scarpa’s preference for understated designs. I worked with a Murano maestro to perform two full ritorto spins (known as “menà” in Muranese dialect) on a mosaic of over 70 canes, creating a dense, criss-crossed pattern. The stretching of the black filigree reveals that black in glass-working black is made by a dense amethyst, warming the final effect.

The Gaia pattern is made by rolling glass over a mosaic of Murano filigree. The glass is spun twice before blowing, turning the straight canes into spirals. The tips are then cut, producing the signature see-through effect known as reticello. This technique is called mezza filigrana, where “filigrana” refers to the reticello, and “grano” represents the bubbles inside the pattern. When seen in transparency it shows as a reticello web but using half of the canes, from this the addition of Mezza (half) to the technique.

The modern hardware is made of solid brass and holds an LED module manufactured in Italy. The module provides 1000 lumens, is dimmable, and has a CRI above 90 for accurate color rendering. With no central socket or bulb, the design remains fully visible. The black silk wire and UL-CE SELV driver fit neatly within the brass canopy.