Czech Republic · Glassmaking / Lighting
Výroba křišťálových lustrů (production of crystal chandeliers); lustr = chandelier
The making of chandeliers from hand-blown, hand-cut lead crystal components mounted on a metal frame, as practiced in North Bohemia's Crystal Valley (Kamenický Šenov and Nový Bor). Glassmakers blow glass into beech-wood molds or shape it over a flame to produce arms, bowls and rosettes; cutters grind and polish prismatic trimmings on diamond wheels; fitters then assemble the pieces by hand onto brass or iron frames. The industry dates from 1724, when the glass cutter Josef Palme received permission to make chandeliers at Prácheň, and the classic Maria Theresa type became its best-known export. Today large and small firms, including bespoke workshops such as Hunat, make lighting for hotels, palaces and residences worldwide.
Risk level: Stable (active export industry with glass schools); hand cutting and glassblowing still depend on skilled workers · Not inscribed as such. The Czech Republic, with France, Germany, Hungary, Finland and Spain, inscribed 'Knowledge, craft and skills of handmade glass production' in December 2023, which covers glassblowing, cutting and the cold techniques used for chandelier components.
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