Why do we love Biot Bubble glasses?
When you are travelling in the South of France, we highly recommend to visit the medieval town of Biot. And while you are there La Verrerie de Biot should definitely be on your bucket list. This enterprise specialises in creating beautiful bubble glass products, such as vases, drinking glasses, bowls, plates and more.
The History of La Verrerie de Biot
A bubble in glass is not necessarily a defect. At La Verrerie de Biot it is even the main quality! This traditional glass factory is the specialist of blown glass and the art of imprisoning a bubble between two layers of glass.
In 1956 Éloi Monod created a unique tradition of glassblowing with a twist – he used a technique where bicarbonate was sprinkled between two layers of glass and when it evaporated, carbon dioxide bubbles appeared. The bubbles formed unique patterns in the glass and this became the signature design of the Biot glass. The result is exceptional.
Éloi opened up a workshop and then a store, La Verrerie de Biot. The company was awarded the prestigious “Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant” (Living Heritage Enterprise) label which recognises such qualities as having exceptional know-how and mastery of traditional or highly technical techniques.
From La Verrerie de Biot only come objects that have the breath of precision and the rarity of what is not repeated, reproduced. Depending on the season and on a master glassmakers’ mood, the products are available in all colours: pink sand, linden, amethyst, Persian blue etc. A feast for the eye.
The Medieval Town Of Biot
Throughout its history, Biot has been invaded by and occupied by various factions, including The Knights Templar. For centuries thereafter, it was known for its pottery and ceramics but in the 20th century, glassblowing took over. Biot is also known for the Musée National Fernand Léger as painter Fernand Léger, who is known for cubism, lived here.
Today, the medieval section of Biot has cobblestone streets and a fair number of stores (many glass and arts related) and restaurants. There are still remains today of monuments and archways from the medieval period so the town still retains its medieval charm.
To conclude, both are definitely worth a visit!
Images via Biot Tourisme