The Brilliance of Ottoman Glass: At the Heart of Mosaic History and Art
Have you ever admired the brilliance and depth of a Byzantine or medieval mosaic? Much of this magic is due to the use of a special material: Ottoman glass. But what is it exactly? And why is it so important in the creation of artistic mosaics, like the ones we make at I Pixel di Oplontis?
A Journey Through Time: The History of Ottoman Glass
Contrary to what its name might suggest, Ottoman glass did not originate in the Ottoman Empire. The term derives from "overseas", indicating a provenance "from beyond the sea", that is, from the Middle East and the Byzantine region, where this glassmaking technique developed from around the 5th century AD.
This type of glass, also called Byzantine glass or mosaic glass, is distinguished from common glass by its particular composition and production process. It was made by melting silica sand with soda and other additives, including metal oxides that gave the glass a wide range of intense and vibrant colors. The resulting glass paste was then cast into thin sheets and cooled slowly to avoid internal stresses, ensuring greater durability and brilliance.
The Unique Features of Ottoman Glass:
- Intense and Brilliant Colors: The addition of metallic oxides allowed to obtain a very rich chromatic palette, with deep and luminous tones that give the mosaics an extraordinary liveliness.
- Opacity and Reflection: Unlike clear glass, Ottoman glass is opaque, which allows for greater reflection of light, creating unique effects of shine and depth.
- Resistance and Durability: The slow cooling process makes Ottoman glass particularly resistant to atmospheric agents and the passage of time, guaranteeing the longevity of the mosaic works.
Ottoman Glass in the Mosaics of I Pixel di Oplontis:
At I Pixel di Oplontis we use Ottoman glass with passion and mastery to create unique mosaics with great visual impact. Our 0.8 x 0.8 cm square tesserae are precisely cut from high-quality Ottoman glass plates, selected for their purity of colour and brilliance. This dimension, the result of meticulous research, allows us to create meticulous details and complex compositions, giving life to works that range from the reproduction of ancient Roman mosaics to contemporary creations.
The use of Ottoman glass allows us to:
- Paying Homage to Tradition: We draw inspiration from ancient mosaic techniques, using materials and methods that preserve their beauty and authenticity.
- Creating Lasting Works: The strength of Ottoman glass ensures the longevity of our creations, which can be admired for generations.
- Providing a Unique Visual Experience: The brilliance and depth of color of Ottoman glass create effects of light and shadow that make each mosaic a unique and captivating work of art.
Why is Ottoman Glass Perfect for Mosaics?
The very nature of Ottoman glass makes it ideal for mosaics. Its opacity enhances the contrasts between the different colours, while its ability to reflect light creates plays of brilliance that animate the surface of the mosaic. In addition, its resistance makes it suitable for both interior and exterior applications.
Conclusion :
Ottoman glass is much more than just a material: it is a witness to history, a vehicle for artistic expression and a fundamental element for the creation of mosaics of extraordinary beauty. At I Pixel di Oplontis we are proud to use this ancient technique to give life to unique and precious works, which continue to enchant and inspire.