Do you like glass art at the table as in tumblers, vases, plates, jewelry, decanters or goblets then read on. I’m not talking about traditional Bohemian crystal glassware which one admires in a museum narrating the lifestyle of the European monarchy, but contemporary art glass as tableware which we discovered in Prague (though sold online and through retailers worldwide). Surprisingly, the leader in this is ARTĚL glass which was started by an American who not only owns the company, but creates the designs and oversees product development in the Czech Republic. She has quite the story. Plus, the glass is exquisite and is sold in select retail stores in the the US. They also just introduced a private engraving experience for small groups at their store in Prague.
The mouth blown and hand engraved barware, tableware and decorative objects have unusual graphic designs and are 100% lead free crystal. One can also order custom pieces. The mastermind is Karen Feldman who is a trained conceptual photographer. Feldman traveled to the Czech Republic in 1994 to help with a friend’s shampoo start up, then switched to trading before pursuing her artistic visions which focused on a love affair with Bohemian crystal glass.
Her concept was to bring the traditional craft of Bohemian crystal glassware to American audiences with audacious designs. Shortly after starting her company Rolls-Royce ordered ARTĚL bar equipment, and Giorgio Armani and Manolo Blahnik ordered private label designs too.
Her designs are themed, with the big award winners being Barnyard, African Safari and the Cabinet of Curiosities collections. Other themes range from the geometric to collections with dogs (It is even possible to order a custom made glass of your own dog! ), sealife , holiday, nature and many more (close to 100).
Czech artisans cut and engrave Feldman’s designs freehand into the glass, some requiring up to 48 hours to create. There are also gilded designs involving engravings which are then gilded with 24-carat gold or platinum.
They are pricey. But they’re heirloom pieces. Glasses start at $115 each. For more information and to order online go to: www.artelglass.com . They are also sold at a number of leading retailers worldwide. In Miami this includes Lakeview Home; Palm Beach, Mary Mahoney ; and Bergdorf Goodman and Scully & Scully in New York City.
This just in!
The newest offering from Artel glass is a private engraving experience at the company’s flagship Prague boutique, located just steps from the iconic Charles Bridge.
This bespoke 90-minute journey, designed for up to four guests, offers a rare glimpse into the artistryof fine glassmaking and includes:
• A private demonstration by a master engraver at work
• An insider’s introduction to the engraving process and the rich history of Czech glassmaking
• The opportunity to try your hand at engraving your own glass to take home as a keepsake
• Refreshments include a complimentary bottle of prosecco served in ARTĚL crystal
• 15% savings on any in-store glassware purchase
• A signature ARTĚL Prague Spires Trinket Bowl for each guest, gifted as a memento of your visit
Experience from €1,200 per group
