Hand Blown Art Glass Steeped in Swedish Tradition

Hand blown art glass has become more and more popular in recent years. Especially that coming from some of the glass works of Sweden. Today, as you enter many popular department stores in the United States such as Macys, or Nordstroms – just to name a couple -- you will see spectacular examples of art glass, much of which is hand blown. Some of the most beautiful decorative glass in existence today is the Orrefors Crystal and the most distinctive Kosta Boda line. Both these lines of hand blown art glass are rich with the history of Sweden.

Kosta Boda is known as the oldest line of Swedish hand blown art glass. Its classic beauty, unique shape, colors and true creations as art make it well worth acquiring. The Kosta Boda Glass Works was first developed in 1742 by two retired generals of the Swedish Army. The first 150 years of its existence was dedicated to the creation of utility glass, such as windowpanes, bottles, glasses and chandeliers. The Kosta Glassworks is the oldest glass-producing facility in Sweden. One of the unique aspects of Kosta Boda hand blown art glass (all of which is imbued with color and style like only a true artist can create) is that they have kept with a tradition some 150 years old. The Kosta Boda line is created, developed, and carried forward as a tradition through time by its individual art glass designers. Their work is shown as designer collections and the glassblowers are often featured at the Kosta Boda website. To see some spectacular art in the form of hand blown art glass, these designers must be viewed!

The Orrefors hand blown art glass and line of crystal is more spectacular than much of the crystal available on the market today. And is it any wonder? Just gazing upon their glassware and stemware is truly a delight to the eyes. The Orrefors line of crystal offers a wide range of products from art pieces and candlesticks to bowls, barware and collectibles. Most impressive in their line is their vase collection, this is where you see the sleek, yet distinctive vertical lines and swirling reflections of light dancing upon the grooves and lines—all brought together through its unique and refreshing shapes. Creativity like this only comes with hand blown art glass!

Hand blown art glass by Orrefors goes back to 1742 in Sweden as well. In fact, the Orrefors glassworks is not far from Kosta. The Orrefors line was developed originally by Lars Johan Silversparre, but did not become noticibly significant until the 1910s when Johan Ekman of Gothenburg acquired the glassworks.