Stunning Portraits Capture Lifelike Glass Models of Marine Invertebrates

Italian still-life photographer Guido Mocafico explores a life-long fascination with the glasswork of Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka in his most recent photography series, simply titled Blaschka. Mocafico has spent the last few years traveling to museums and universities around the world, collecting shots of some of the most impressive marine masterpieces that the Blaschkas ever created. The illuminated aquatic creatures—colorful jellyfish, octopuses, sea anemones and corals—come to life against plain black backgrounds in Mocafico’s series.

Originally from Bohemia, but based in Dresden, the Blaschka’s were notable glassmakers from the mid-1800's until the 1930's. Over the course of their overlapping careers, the father and son team created thousands of marine invertebrates, spun out of clear and painted glass, that were to be used for educational purposes. What has allowed their work to stand the test of time and become celebrated pieces in so many natural history exhibits is the breathtaking artistry and masterful devotion to detail that is apparent within their lifelike sea creature models.

Mocafisco pays homage to the profound and dedicated craftsmanship displayed by the two expert artists within his visually fascinating photography series that chronicles their life work.

Blaschka is currently on display at Hamiltons Gallery in London through May 24th, 2016.

Above:Octopus vulgaris, Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. Photograph © Guido Mocafico, 2013. With the courtesy of the Natural History Museum of London, UK.

Porpita meditteranea, Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. Photograph © Guido Mocafico, 2013. With the courtesy of the Natural History of Geneva, Switzerland.

Bougainvillia fruiticosa, Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. Photograph © Guido Mocafico, 2014. With the courtesy of the University Museum of Utrecht, The Netherlands.

Carmarina hastata stage 4, Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. Photograph © Guido Mocafico, 2014. With the courtesy of the University of Vienna, Austria.

Aulosphaera elegantissima, Leopold and Rudolf Blaschka. Photograph © Guido Mocafico, 2013. With the courtesy of the Natural History Museum of Dublin, Ireland.