Andrea Rioda first distinguished himself as a designer of elegant, classically inspired glass while working for the Company Venezia Murano (CVM) at the end of the 19th century. In 1911, he founded his own firm, Andrea Rioda & C. which focused on the production of lightweight vessels in classical forms. These essential works were the forerunners of the Soffiato glass which would be made famous by Vittorio Zecchin at Venini beginning in 1921.