Historical glass

Historical glass - replicas of ancient (Roman), medieval (viking, early and late medieval), and renaissance glass. Handmade in the Czech Republic, in a historical centre of medieval glass production. Green glass, also known as forest glass, is produced using traditional methods preserved from the Bohemian region since the 14th century. The color is not the only distinctive feature; bubbles in the glass are also typical. The glass, of course, is blown by hand. We have provided glassware for films and series, including The Witcher, Vikings, and Gladiator II.

Historical Glass has fascinated people throughout the ages, so it’s no wonder that the craft of making replicas of historical glass vessels still remains a vital tradition. Green glass, sometimes called forest glass is crafted using traditional methods that have been handed down from one generation to the next in Bohemia (Czech Republic) since the 14th century. The products are hand blown. The presence of tiny bubbles in this glass, as well as its pleasant green coloration make it unmistakeably unique. Our selection of vessels includes ancient glass, medieval goblets and Renaissance glass. Our company is actively involved in designing and manufacturing attractive pieces of historical glass accented with tin, which can be seen and ordered here.

Green Forest Glass: A Cultural and Technological Heritage

Green forest glass, also known as "Waldglas", is a material associated with European glassmaking from the Middle Ages to the early modern period. This type of glass is characterized by its olive-green color, resulting from a high content of iron impurities in raw materials such as sand and wood ash. The production of green glass in the Czech lands dates back to the 14th century, when glassworks developed in densely forested areas, providing ample wood for smelting.

Historical Use and Regional Specifics

This glass was commonly used for making vessels from antiquity through the Viking era to the Middle Ages and Renaissance. Forest glass was primarily used for practical items, such as goblets, drinking cups, bottles, or storage vessels, reflecting the aesthetic and technological capabilities of the time. Patterns and techniques varied by region – Czech forest glass was renowned for its quality and innovations, influencing glassmaking across Europe.

Characteristic Features of Green Glass

Green forest glass is easily recognizable by:

Its typical green color, created by iron oxides.
The presence of small bubbles, resulting from traditional hand-blowing techniques.

Historical Replicas: From Antiquity to Renaissance

Our products include authentic replicas of ancient vessels used in classical civilizations, Viking cups that accompanied Scandinavian warriors, medieval goblets adorned with simple patterns, and Renaissance glassware, often accented with tin details.

Historical Approach to Reconstruction

Each piece is crafted based on meticulous study of archaeological findings and historical sources. The production technology corresponds to traditional methods, including the use of period tools and processes.

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