What is the origin of handblown glass?

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.

Clear Handblown at NOVICA United Kingdom

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Featured Reviews

Margarita glasses, 'Cobalt Classics' (set of 4)

Catherine

Jul 30, 2018

Happy Hour Indeed!

Got these as a gift for a friend of mine, to match a margarita pitcher I got for her a previous year--these are a perfect addition, well made, and have that right weight feel to them that makes a glass your next favorite to sip out of! Beautiful works of art.

Bar Glasses

Cobalt Blue

Craft Cocktail Glasses

Margarita Glasses

Mexican Blue Rim Glasses

Mexican Cobalt Blue Glassware

Mexican Cobalt Blue Glassware!!

Mexican Glasses Blue Rim

Patio Drinkware!!

Special Occasion Glasses

Handblown glass figurine, 'Peace Dachshund'

Judy

Jul 12, 2025

Love my little Peace Dachshund!

I have been watching these little Dachshunds for quite a while in my Wish List.... Finally decided Peace Dachshund was the right one for me. She shared her experiences flying around the country before arriving at my house (USPS sent her on quite the adventure). Thank you Panapai for this treasure.

Glass Blowing Products

Animal Themed Sculpture