Ah! Jackpot! While wandering the streets of Rome Kurt and I stumbled upon the most beautiful blown glass shop. We went inside to meet the owner and in house glass artist, a man by the name of Mazen Rankoussi. Mazen was beyond welcoming as he talked to us about his treasure trove of art glass, all handmade by himself. Mazen showed me some of the books he uses to gain inspiration and which pieces in his shop reflected Roman, Venetian, and Murano techniques. He talked to me about his life as a glass artist for over 21 years. He has lived in Roma for over 20 years, and considers himself a native of Italy. His roots however, take him back to his birthplace of Syria where he told us about how glass was discovered there dating 2000 years before Christ. That a massive fire burnt along the Syrian coast turning the beach sand to molten glass. Mazen’s work was absolutely beautiful, his shop unbelievably quaint, and his hospitality overwhelming. He gave each of us a glass bead as we left the shop wishing us good luck during the rest of our trip. Meeting Mazen and seeing all of his beautiful handmade Roman art was a total surprise and pleasure.
Tuesday, June 23, 2009
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You have quickly discovered one of the most important and fun aspects of traveling abroad...meeting new and interesting people, and finding places like your blown glass shop while exploring. I'll look forward to hearing more when you guys get back! Hope you had a great anniversary!
ReplyDeleteLarry,
ReplyDeleteOh we are having the best time! And yes, meeting Mazen was an amazing experience and a great insight into the warmth of the people of Rome. We can't wait to share more of the trip with you and Rita, and hear about all of your amazing travels!
Sawyer
Dear Sawyer,
ReplyDeleteThank you very much for this nice words and this sentitive of art,..
I wish to see you again in Rome, and show you how i make the galss,,,.
Rankoussi Mazen
www.perladoriente.com
www.beadshoprome.com
What a wonderful post, and photos. Rankoussi is a friend of mine, having met him in his shop in Rome earlier this summer. I love everything in his shop; it was very difficult to limit my purchasing!
ReplyDeletehttps://www.facebook.com/beadshoprome
ReplyDeleteBead Shop Rome ® https://www.facebook.com/groups/100387766719036/photos/
Rankoussi
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