The Legacy of Czech Glassmaking: Craftsmanship Refined Over Centuries

July 04 2025, by Lucie Kabova, 2 min reading time

Czech glassmaking, with roots tracing back to the 13th century, stands as a global symbol of craftsmanship and cultural heritage. Renowned for its high-quality crystal and artisanal techniques, the Czech Republic exports over 90% of its glass to more than 90 countries. From traditional Bohemian crystal to avant-garde studio works, the sector thrives through a unique blend of heritage and innovation. Domus Artis proudly collaborates with master Czech artists to present handcrafted, one-of-a-kind pieces that reflect this rich legacy.

Czech glassmaking is not just a tradition - it is a cultural and economic powerhouse that has helped shape the identity of Central Europe. With documented origins dating back to the 13th century, the Czech Republic (formerly Bohemia) has developed one of the most respected reputations in the global glass industry.

Today, the Czech glass and crystal sector employs over 7,000 people and exports to more than 90 countries. According to data from the Czech Glass and Fashion Association, over 90% of Czech glass production is exported, with leading markets including Germany, the USA, the UAE, China, and Japan. Bohemian crystal in particular has become a global hallmark of quality, known for its high lead content (typically 24%) that gives it superior brilliance and resonance.

Beyond industrial production, the Czech Republic is home to hundreds of small studios and independent artists, many of whom continue to use rare and endangered techniques such as pâte de verre, glass engraving, hot-sculpting, and layered cut glass. Several of these methods are unique in the world, preserved only by a small number of master artisans, some of whom have received recognition from UNESCO or the European Commission's "Living Human Treasures" program.

What sets Czech glass apart is the fusion of deep-rooted tradition and contemporary experimentation. Institutions like the Academy of Arts, Architecture & Design in Prague (UMPRUM) have helped modernise the field by blending conceptual design with hands-on mastery. The result is a thriving ecosystem where craft, art, and design converge, producing everything from collectible sculptures to architectural installations.

At Domus Artis, we are proud to work closely with artists who represent the best of this legacy, creators who do not just produce objects, but shape visual narratives in glass. Each piece is one-of-a-kind, handcrafted in the Czech Republic, and accompanied by a certificate of authenticity.

We believe that supporting Czech glass is not only about celebrating beauty, it’s about preserving a world-class heritage of skill, innovation, and human expression.

If you are a curator, collector, interior designer, or simply someone who values art with soul and substance, we invite you to discover more at Domus-artis.net

* Industry insights and data referenced in this article were drawn from the Czech Glass and Fashion Association, CzechTrade, CzechInvest, the Academy of Arts, Architecture & Design in Prague (UMPRUM), and official trade statistics published by the Czech Chamber of Commerce. Recognition of traditional techniques is also informed by listings from UNESCO and the European Commission's "Living Human Treasures" program. Image credit: Moser Archive