Klimchi Studios -an old glassworks reinvigorated.

Kamenický Šenov is a historic Czech town in the Liberec Region, famous for its centuries-old glassmaking tradition, particularly chandeliers, and home to the world's oldest glass school. It features a well-preserved historic center, a Glass Museum showcasing local craftsmanship, and is located in a picturesque landscape near the Bohemian Central Highlands and Lusatian Mountains, offering access to natural attractions like Panská skála (basalt columns).

Key features

Glassmaking: The town's identity is tied to glass, with a history of chandelier production dating back to the 17th century, and numerous workshops still operating today.

Glass Museum: A central attraction with permanent and temporary exhibitions on the history of engraved and cut glass, as well as crystal chandeliers.

Glass School: The oldest glass school in the world, founded in 1856, continues to train students in glass design, engraving, and cutting.

Historic Center: The town center is protected as an urban monument zone, with notable sites like the Baroque church of St. John the Baptist.

Natural Surroundings: It's situated on the border of two protected landscape areas, offering hiking and outdoor activities, with nearby natural wonders like Panská skála (the "Stone Organ").

Here is the story of one glassware company in the region:

GLASSWARE WINNING HEARTS INTERNATIONALLY

The Klimchi studio has reached its way to the top despite being so young. Founded by Lukáš Klimčák in 2019, the brand has won many hearts across the globe, including the heart of London market. The exclusive handmade glassware brings together the best of traditional Bohemian glassmaking and contemporary visions of the young creative director František Jungvirt. The results are pieces with a mesmerising colour palette, refined shapes and high functionality.

The production takes place in small family glassworks in Kamenický Šenov, established by the founder's stepfather and run by his cousin. Inspired by the surrounding picturesque landscape and local glassmaking tradition, the creators come up with unique designs such as the signature hobnail glassware or the vase collection made of crackled glass. Klimchi aims to produce lifelong pieces that become an heirloom passed down for generations. After all, the founder values family as a fundamental essence of the studio's creation.

KLIMCHI

GLASSBLOWING

KAMENICKÝ ŠENOV, CZECH REPUBLIC

ADDRESS

Nová huť 687, 471 14, Kamenický Šenov, Czech Republic

Kamenický Šenov (historically Steinschönau when the region was called Sudetenland) in the Czech Republic is a global hub for glassmaking, celebrated for pioneering crystal chandelier production and housing the world’s oldest glassmaking school. This heritage of fire, sand, and artistry remains one of the country's most prominent cultural treasures.

History of Klimchi glassblowing.

Founded in 1905, Jílek Glassworks is one of the oldest glass factories in Kamenický Šenov, Czech Republic. Originally specializing in dark-colored glass, it has evolved into a leading producer of custom handmade crystal, achieving global recognition in 2023 when its creations were featured in the movie Barbie.

Key Milestones1905: The factory was founded by Antonín Jílek and Franz Vetter, initially specializing in black Pyrolusite and other dark-colored glasses.

1919: Following a change in partnership, the firm was rebranded as Bratří Jílkova (The Jílek Brothers).

1922–1923: New production buildings were erected, significantly expanding the facility.1935: The glassworks began a highly successful collaboration with leading professors and teachers from the School of Applied Arts in Prague, such as Josef Drahoňovský.

Post-WWII & Communist Era: The factory was nationalized by the state. (Another instance of state theft).During this time, it continued to operate, but under the control of the communist regime of Czechoslovakia, maintaining core Bohemian glassmaking traditions.

1993: Following the fall of Communism, the glassworks were privatized.2006: Facing intense global competition, the company was purchased by Ars Vetraria Ltd (later known as CZK) to secure its future.2019: The brand Klimchi was established by one of the youngest members of the Jílek family, who breathed new life into the historic factory by introducing colorful, hobnail-style crystal to the global market.

Legacy and Modern ProductionToday, the factory blends traditional hand-blown glass techniques with modern design. Its portfolio spans from drinking ware and chandeliers to architectural glass and shisha components. The glassworks is famously known for its vast library of vintage metal molds and its signature colored glass, which boasts exceptional transparency and brilliance.

We, Wild.ThingsBeads, stumbled onto this glassworks one year while roaming around the countrysid, and fell in love with their glass. We purchased this style of “hobnail” glassware and sold it to our customers in the U.S.