With The Exhibit “The Lens Of Time – The History Of Eyewear In Italy”, Anfao Honors One Of The Country’s Symbols Of Excellence
A journey through the history of Italian eyewear – elegance, innovation and sustainability.
Consistently committed to promoting and enhancing the value of Italian eyewear around the globe, ANFAO - Italian Optical Goods Manufacturers’ Association, actively participates in the National “Made in Italy” Day by organizing “The Lens of Time – The History of Eyewear in Italy”. This captivating exhibit narrates the history of Italian eyewear, emphasizing the value of an industry that integrates tradition, innovation, and design.
The project is part of a series of initiatives promoted by the Ministry of Enterprises and Made in Italy (MIMIT) for the National “Made in Italy” Day, established to fully appreciate Italy’s creativity and production excellence.
Conceptualized, produced and promoted by ANFAO, with the collaboration of and curated by Fondazione Museo dell’Occhiale, and the partnership of Fondazione di Venezia and Fondazione M9-Museo del ‘900, the exhibit tells a unique story. Divided into three sections, it relates the history of eyewear, contemporary design, and the materials and manufacturing techniques employed, highlighting the central role of Italy – and in particular the Belluno district – in the conception and production of eyewear, a manufacturing excellence famous worldwide.
Through more than 100 items, selected from the valuable pieces at the Eyewear Museum of Pieve di Cadore and from two prestigious private collections – those of Venetian optician Roberto Vascellari and of designer Lucio Stramare – the exhibit narrates the evolution of eyewear from its origins in the 13th century to contemporary experimentation. One-of-a-kind pieces, intriguing objects, interactive technologies, artistic installations, historic images, vintage posters and sophisticated points of reference guide visitors along a pathway that interweaves art, science, innovation, fashion and technology.
“The Lens of Time – The History of Eyewear in Italy” pays tribute to Italy’s cultural and productive identity. It is an opportunity to rediscover a cult object that has maintained its relevance across the centuries, transforming itself from a “hidden device” to a symbol of style and creativity, becoming an essential part of everyone’s look.
The public opening is set for 3 pm on 7 May 2025 at Palazzo Flangini, headquarters of Fondazione di Venezia. Access to the exhibit is free of charge until 30 July 2025.
Useful information
Inauguration: 7 May 2025 at 11:30 am by invitation only
Open to the public: from 3 pm on 7 May to 5 pm on 30 July 2025.
Hours: Monday - Sunday from 11 am to 5 pm.
Admission: free.
Address: Palazzo Flangini - Cannaregio, Calle Flangini 252, Venezia