Reticello is one of the most intricate and admired techniques in the tradition of Murano glassmaking. Its origins date back to the Renaissance, when Venetian glassmakers on the island of Murano began to experiment with increasingly refined decorative patterns. The term reticello, meaning “small net” in Italian, refers to the fine, lace-like network of interlaced filaments that characterizes this technique. Reticello is created by fusing two layers of filigrana glass canes aligned in a crisscross pattern. These canes are traditionally made of crystal (clear glass) and lattimo, a special opaque white glass. The first layer is blown and twisted, then a second is laid in the opposite direction. As they intersect and are reheated, small air bubbles become trapped at the crossing points, creating a delicate geometric pattern. However, due to the historical use of arsenic in the formulation of lattimo, this glass is no longer produced. As a result, authentic reticello can now only be made if vintage lattimo canes are still available, making this technique increasingly rare and valuable. This technique requires extraordinary precision, control of heat, and timing. Even minor misalignments or temperature fluctuations can compromise the pattern. Because of its complexity, reticello is executed by only a handful of master glassmakers and is considered a pinnacle of Venetian craftsmanship.