Bohemian Crystal Perfume Bottles

The rich history of glassmaking in Bohemia goes back as far as the 13th century, when the region made windows that were used in monasteries and churches. As technology advanced over the next several centuries, various methods of working with the glass led to more and more applications for the medium, including vases, glassware, bowls, and, eventually, perfume bottles. Cut crystal geometry, intaglio decorations, molded openwork figures, and many combinations of these create rich narratives and beautiful pieces of decor. In the late 19th century, glassmakers learned to add rare earth metals to their glass formulas to create colored glass. As the industrial revolution began and globalization continued throughout the 20th century, Americans could see exotic art and objects from all over the world. The young nation of Czechoslovakia first notably exhibited its crystal to the world stage in the 1925 Paris Exposition des Art Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes. It was received very well, winning several major international awards and becoming a popular genre of art that was envied around the globe. 

After Bohemian Crystal premiered on the world stage, it wasn’t long before it was manufactured and created for a wider audience. After WWI, young Americans were looking to have fun and celebrate the post-war peace and enjoy the birth of Hollywood glamour. Czech glassmakers exported perfume bottles to the US at a time when leisure was a thriving industry. Young people began to go out on dates, and make-up and perfume became more widely available. These elegant glass perfume bottles were seen on the vanities of star actresses in Hollywood films and the masses were quick to emulate them as the supply became available. They were generally imported and sold empty and filled at department stores, however some commercially designed bottles existed and were sold filled with fragrance. 

The Czech Center and Museum has hundreds of pieces from this boom in demand for Bohemian Crystal perfume bottles. As you walk through our rich collection, the light catches each piece and leaves you in awe of the craftsmanship and beauty of the vast array of details and designs. Each cut crystal stopper, atomizer with gold filigree, and colored glass figural intaglio piece tells its own story. Find out more by browsing our collection of crystal boudoir accessories below.