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Discover Mid-America - February 2005

Colorful Bohemian glass created by many techniques

Bohemian glass goblet (photo courtesy of Seidenberg, Inc. 836 Broadway, New York, NY)

When most people think of Bohemian glass (now Czechoslovakia) from the 18th to early 20th century, it's the ruby-red color with etched deer and castles that most comes to mind. Yet many colors and techniques were used to create what is considered some of the most beautiful glass in the world. Even these days, you see new examples of cased or overlay, and color-stained glass described as “in the Bohemian style.”

By the early 20th century, so much of the ruby-color stained glass was produced that it went out of fashion, and production ended by 1900. It was the French and Austrian displays of Bohemian techniques at the 1853 New York Crystal Palace Exhibit that brought it to the attention of Americans.

Imported German glassworkers produced it for the Boston and Sandwich Glass Company and the New England Glass Company. By the 1860s, it was on display in most fashionable Victorian homes. Eventually the name “Bohemian Glass” became almost generic for any glass using such colors and techniques no matter where it was made.

Not only were there utilitarian pieces, decorative vases and bottles but magnificent Bohemian-style chandeliers. You can see one beauty made by the Boston and Sandwich Glass Co. at the Metropolitan Museum of Art.

Only a decade ago prices were low. However, a new generation has been collecting and prices are on the upswing. What was once plentiful has either been broken or may still be hidden away in attics. These days a ruby-glass, stag motif vase could sell for over $1,500. A Bohemian red-stained engraved jug, engraved with vines and cupids, could fetch $2,000 or more at auction. A glass beaker, decorated with figures c. 1825-30, could sell at auction for as much as $7,000.

CLUES

Begin by knowing the following different techniques used with the glass:

“Cased or Overlay Glass” combines the use of different colored metals used in making glass, in layers and cutting. Usually the color was fused over clear glass and the glasscutter then cuts a design through to the clear. Brilliant red (ruby) was made to resemble the gem. Other popular colors are amber, deep blue and dark green colors.

“Stained Glass” is colored by fusing metallic oxide into it or burning colored pigments onto the surface. Designs were etched or engraved.

“Flashed” was a less expensive way to achieve color by adding a thin layer over the glass. Since it is not fired on, it wears off over time. Flashed glass that has worn off will have missing areas of color.

“Etched Glass” was popular in the late 19th century, made by applying an acid-resisting coat. The design was cut through by hand or machine. It has a frosted look similar to engraving.

“Engraved Glass” was done with a copper wheel and abrasives to create a shallow design

The “Bohemian style” overlay glass created in America doesnÕt show the skill of the pieces made in Bohemia. There are apt to be irregularities in the designs. Overall work in mid-19th century pieces is crude since primitive cutting machinery was used. Cologne bottles in ruby glass, cut and overlaid have been reproduced. If the pieces are precisely cut, be suspicious. Ruby-stained vintage grape colognes made in quantity can be mistaken for Bohemian pieces.

There are plenty of gem-color overlay glass reproductions. Know your dealer or get written attribution before putting out too much money. 

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