The Ombelico developed from a simple idea: to make a large, round, colorful artwork. The large surface of these works allow for intricate patterns of cane and murrine to shine through in multiple layers.

The Cantu series was especially prevalent in 1999 and again in 2007. In these works, the Maestro employed a delicate, lace-like pattern composed of twisted canes, combined with the refined incalmo technique, to create pieces that exemplify both technical mastery and visual elegance.

Maestro Tagliapietra has visited Japan a number of times and re-mains fascinated by the culture and landscape of this captivating country. Reflecting on this particular series, Lino comments that his travels in Japan taught him that “simplicity is not easy. It is complicated to make a simple design refined.” 

In 2017 Lino had the opportunity to visit China and Taiwan for an international exhibition of his works. This trip inspired the creation of these monochromatic pieces. Named for Taiwan’s capital, these works pay homage to traditional scroll painting in Asian art.

The Maestro creates the Maui series’ striking colors using exclusively cane in several layers of incalmo. These series are heavily engraved in order to add to their atmosphere and depth and are named for Hawaii’s second-largest island.

In addition to complicated filigrana canes within the body of the work, Lino has also added horizontal blue canes around the outside of this piece. When engraved, the blue canes show their white interiors, creating the delicate dotted pattern through the piece.

The Niomea series is among Lino Tagliapietra’s most technically complex and visually intricate works. It features flowing loops of color made using the filigrana technique, requiring meticulous preparation of individual canes. Each cane involves hours of craftsmanship—layering, twisting, and aligning long glass rods to create the intended pattern.