Your answers straight from the village experts
The art of glass blowing dates back to almost 50 BC when Syrian craftsmen invented the technique. Its popularity grew with the rise of the Roman Empire, taking it through Europe and then to parts of Asia and the Middle East. Soon after, the beauty and utility of blown glass made it widely known and desired around the world.The first glass made in North America was produced in Puebla, Mexico around 1535 by artisans from Spain. Handblown glass arrived in the Guadalajara area in 1820.Central Americas first blown glass factory opened in Guatemala in 1970. Its founders learned the art from local people, which made them valuable assets for two more factories that opened in 1972. Over the years, a small community of artisans from Quetzaltenango came together to create Cantel Blown Glass Artisans, a cooperative that works together with Novica to share these unique creations with the world.
By Ellie
Handblown glasses with a cobalt rim. We had a set but they slowly dwindled down over the years. Impossible to find the same ones in Australia, was pleasantly surprised to find these again. Just like the original. Glad to have them back!
By Jhyshain
I live in Alaska. I am glad to receive my order of six red border rim glass tumblers. None was broken. They are perfect.
By Jeannine
I purchased two of these Cheeky Blue Owls and am so happy I did! They are delicate and so well made I love them! Thank you Katia and Ivan for sharing your talent!
Each piece of blown glass is unique, and each one carries a bit of the heart of the artisan who crafted it.
An artisan town near Guadalajara, Tonala takes its name from the Nahuatl "Tonallan" — "where the sun comes out." Glass blowing has... read more
Discover our unique collection of beautiful, handmade objects from around the world, inspired by more than a century of exploration.
SHOP THE CATALOG