Bohemia flower vases from the Czech Republic: varieties and use in the interior

Bohemian crystal vases have a long history of their appearance and existence. Despite the change in fashion trends in the design of houses and apartments, Bohemia vases remain popular. They are used not only for flowers, but also as a bright accent in the interior.

Glass making in the Czech Republic is one of the most ancient industries, known all over the world for over 600 years. For the first time, chronicles mention glass blowers from Bohemia in the middle of the 13th century. And after 300 years, the number of Czech glass workshops reached hundreds. The rapid growth in glassmaking began with the massive resettlement of Saxon craftsmen, and 1684 was a fateful year in glass history. Master Müller has obtained a glass of such clarity and transparency, which has not been seen before. The resulting glass was called "Bohemian crystal", as the western part of Bohemia was called Bohemia. And the new technology quickly gained popularity across Europe.

In the 18th century, glass production in the Czech Republic was at the height of its development. Expensive Bohemian glassware adorned many European kings' homes. Bohemian crystal has become a role model for glass blowers in many countries. The centuries-old traditions are carefully followed by modern craftsmen. Until now, many processes are done by hand using old technology. Tens of millions of crystal and glass products with modern designs are produced annually. Czech glassware made in the 19th century does not lose its popularity. And older copies are kept in museums or sold at auctions for a lot of money.

Bohemia vases come in glass and crystal. The principle according to which the product will be classified as glass or crystal is based on the presence of lead in the vase. Simple glass products contain no more than 4% lead. Crystal contains more than 10%. In elite crystal, lead accounts for 30%. This component is very important for the consistency of the glass, as it makes the glass more pliable and elastic. This allows the master to perform more complex and colorful shapes. Lead endows glass with special reflective and light-refractive properties.

Bohemia glass and crystal vases are crafted in three ways: blown, drawn and extruded. The first variety is blown into a mold of a specific width and height. Those pulled out by hands, only the base is in the form. They have a large leg and thick, smooth walls.

By type, the edges of the product are divided:

• smooth edges often show off with color or precious metal;
• dentate is not very common, but still exists;
• cut edges are typical for design forms.

The variety of shapes that are produced today is multifaceted. Consider the basic shapes of Bohemia crystal flower vases.

• Classic vases for flowers, they most often have a small stable bottom and gradually expand upward.
• "Jardinieres". One of the most common forms of Czech glass. It differs from the classic form in its small size and a small thick leg on a round or square support.
• Designer products can be of the most unusual shape.
• Floor vases. Quite large and voluminous. Often they are not used for their intended purpose, but play the role of decoration in the interior.
• Antique. They have the characteristic features of the original specimens: pretentiousness, a large number of small elements, the presence of gilding and small handles on the sides. Purchased by true connoisseurs of Czech glass and kept as historical exhibits.

A colored layer is obtained by adding certain minerals. For example, manganese colors the crystal pink or purple. Copper oxide imparts a blue tint. Glass and crystal produced by the Czech Republic are characterized by a colorless cut on a colorful background. It is created by cutting out patterns on the color layer, which reveals the bottom colorless layer. Bohemia glass vases, decorated with artistic painting, molding, gilding and silver, are very popular.

Crystalite bohemia - the company, established in the fall of 2009, unites two enterprises that produce glass and crystal. First, the Svetla nad Sazavoyski plant has existed since 1967. Today it is fully automated. Produces dishes for drinks, vases and other decorative items.

The second enterprise of the company "Kvetna" is located in the city of Strani. Has been working since 1794. All work in this plant is done by hand. Also "Kvetna" is engaged in various glass decoration. Both factories interact with each other. Titanium is added to the molten glass, which makes the products much stronger.

Product range Crystalite bohemia constantly updated with new series. The latest novelties of classic transparent bohemian flower vases appeared in the gift sets Origami, Barley Twist, Casablanca, Dynasty. Each model has its own design and characteristics. For example, Casablanca is a standard bohemian vase with a stem with a beautiful embossed pattern. All models from gift sets are made on automatic production.

Worth noting is the handmade series Optic rhythm... This is a series of unique Bohemian vases of complex shapes. They are available in different sizes from 17 to 29 and in different colors - green, light blue and black. The range of flower vases offers products from glass, cut and smooth crystal, exclusive vases and options with stucco molding. The number of manufactured models is over 400.

According to the world standard, Bohemian crystal should consist of potassium-calcium glass and lead oxide. The higher the lead content, the stronger the vase. Data on the percentage of lead in crystal can be found on the paper label stuck to the product. Real crystal has a lead content of at least 24%.

A clear indication that the vase was hand-made are slight differences, as well as the presence of a connecting seam on the bottom. If the crystal pattern shimmers in the light with all the colors of the rainbow, then you have a quality copy in your hands. The price of the product also depends on the pattern, the thinner and more elegant it is, the more expensive the item.

Feel the edge of the vase. For real crystal, it should be slightly pointed, but not cut. You also need to pay attention to the weight of the product. It is not necessary to weigh the vase, just pick it up. A real crystal vase will be heavy.

Check out the crystal jingle. After hitting the vase with a pencil, the ringing should last about 4 seconds. If there are any flaws, swelling or cloudiness on the product, please inform the seller. The presence of problems with the product indicates its counterfeit or poor quality.

Modern interiors are in perfect harmony with large floor vases. Unusual shapes of crystal vases without any additions will effectively decorate the room.If this design option is too peculiar, you can stop at the timeless classics. The walls of delicate pastel colors, a marble fireplace, a suspended crystal chandelier and a mirror in a gold frame will subtly emphasize a thick crystal vase with a bouquet of peonies.

In the French and Provence styles, crystal vases with wildflowers or garden flowers are often used. In Provence, large vases are not entirely appropriate. It is better to give preference to several small vases of the same style with a variety of flower arrangements, which will become an eye-catching accent of the interior. A great addition to the festive winter decoration will be a large vase with spruce or dry branches. Dry branches should be kept in a saline solution for at least 24 hours to give them a frosting effect. You can decorate such compositions with lights, colored garlands and small balls. The LED garland will beautifully show the refraction of the crystal.

Crystal has great decorative abilities in contrast to glass products. Cutting and engraving create additional relief and expressiveness to crystal products. And numerous facets that refract light help the product to shimmer with all the colors of the rainbow. Crystal vases are an integral part of luxurious and expensive interiors. For centuries, handcrafted crystal has been a symbol of wealth. All vases, regardless of shape, size and design, have a practical and decorative function.

Crystal products can be an independent decorative element due to their brightness and elegance. At the same time, they will perfectly cope with their direct function and complement any flower arrangement. Flowers with small stems are usually placed in jardinieres. Tall flowers are placed in long oval vases with pressed sides or tall narrow vases. Wide bowl-shaped vases are ideal for large hanging arrangements.

For information on how to choose Bohemia flower vases from the Czech Republic, see the next video.