Set of Six Multicolored Bohemian Crystal Glasses from the 1990s

Set of 6 multicolored Bohemian crystal glasses, made in the 1990s

Ø cm 8.5 h cm 12.5

Bohemian crystal is a decorative glass produced in Bohemia since the 1700s. This region is famous for producing colored glass objects thanks to the abundant natural resources found there. Bohemian glassmakers discovered that mixing potassium chloride and gypsum produced clear, colorless glass. Bohemia began producing skilled artisans capable of expertly working the crystal, which became famous for its excellent cutting.  

Vases were produced in a single opaque color or in two colors. The pieces were finely decorated with enameled floral motifs, while others were decorated with colored lithographic prints. 

Bohemian crystal differs from ordinary glass in the amountà of lead, as it makes the glass more elastic, softer, and easier to work. The extremely high percentage of lead makes Bohemian Crystal particularly heavy and allows light to refract in a truly unique way. 

The wonder of Bohemian crystal is enhanced by an intoxicating interplay of colors and reflections in lamps and chandeliers. Their characteristic feature is that they are made entirely of glass and have pendants in various shapes. Each element is handmade by master glassmakers. 

To obtain small objects, the blowing method is usually used, divided into two techniques: free blowing or mold blowing. In both cases, the glass is brought to its melting point. 

One processing technique is the cylinder method; it consists of rotating a quantityà of paste, untilé a cylinder approximately 50 cm long is obtained, whose two ends will then be cutà. It is then engraved with the tip of a diamond and transferred to a kiln. It Aprand folded like a book to obtain a sheet. Once reheated, it is worked to give it the desired shape. 

Feet or a pedestal can also be added to the object. Another processing technique is mechanical, carried out with the help of machines or manually by the artisan during certain specific stages.