Having a rich and extensive history of glass working, historical findings show evidence of glass processing in the Bohemia region at the beginning of the Christian calendar about 2000 years ago. Although Bohemian glass working experienced many revivals and declines, it has consistently remained revered in the international stage throughout the years.
Beaker, Bohemian glass with two layers, dated 1848. Cut decor featuring the Fates. Victoria and Albert Museum
It was first thrust into the spotlight during the Renaissance, being a sought-after commodity thanks to technological improvements developed during this time. Its fame rivaled that of contemporaneous Venetian glass, which is still considered the peak of glassmaking to this day. In the early 17th century, Caspar Lehmann, gem-cutter to Emperor Rudolph II of Prague, adapted and perfected the technique of engraving glass with copper and bronze wheels. This helped garner acclaim for the cut and engraved decorative glass in the high Baroque style from 1685 to 1750. Lehmann founded a school that helped to propagate his techniques and influence when one of his most gifted students established the famous Nürnberg school of engravers.
Bohemian glass jug dated to about 1900.
Demonstrates Art Nouveau influence in glassware around that time.
Attribution: Jenny O'Donnell
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Around 1700, Bohemian glass became the leading glass internationally when a heavy, highly refractive potash-lime glass was invented that is now known as Bohemian crystal. These works boasted original designs, intricate ornamentation, and a luster due to the high refractive characteristic of the glass.
Nearby Silesia also became a major center for the production of this type of glass, particularly through the work of Friedrich Winter. Bohemian glass underwent several changes during this time in response to competing glassmakers and passing trends. This includes the invention of different glass kinds such as Hyalith glass, Lithyalin glass, and ruby glass. Artistic quality declined after this but was revived by Ludwig Lobmeyr, who founded a glass-designing studio in Kamenický Šenov and firmly established himself at the Vienna International Exhibition of 1873. His revival of the art of glass engraving has helped maintain Bohemian glassmaking popularity, which remains ubiquitous.
Crystal chandeliers originating from Kamenický Šenov are displayed today in the interior of buildings in Rome, Milan, Brussels, and luxury hotels in the United States. Bohemian glass also enjoys a place in the modern marketplace. Among the most famous current Bohemian glass producers are Moser, Rückl, and Crystalex.
Bohemian glass chandelier in the Teatro alla Scala opera house in Milan, Italy
Attributed to: Wolfgang Moroder