Large Blue Hobnail "Genie" Bottle - Empoli - 1960s

​Empoli, a town in Italy's Tuscany region, has been a prominent center for glassmaking since the 15th century. The area's glass industry flourished due to the abundant natural resources, particularly the local sand rich in iron oxide, which imparted a characteristic green hue to the glass, known as "Empoli Verde." ​

In the 1950s, Stelvia Glassworks was established in Empoli. The name "Stelvia" is an acronym for "Società Toscana Esercizio Lavorazione Vetri Industriali e Artistici," translating to "Tuscan Company for Industrial and Artistic Glass Processing." Stelvia became renowned for its innovative designs, including the "Antiqua" range, crafted by esteemed American designer Wayne Husted. These pieces often featured textured surfaces and vibrant colours, reflecting the mid-century modern aesthetic.​

Empoli's glassmakers, including Stelvia, transitioned from traditional green glassware to producing brightly coloured cased glass in the 1950s and 60s, showcasing their adaptability and artistic evolution. Today, Empoli's glass heritage is celebrated worldwide, with vintage pieces highly sought after by collectors and enthusiasts.