Jaroslav Bejvl and New Bohemian Glass

​Ever since I have started my journey into the history of decorative arts, it was Bohemian glass and its history, which have come to capture my imagination, the glass produced in the regions of Bohemia and Silesia, now parts of the Czech Republic, since the early years of the 17th century. I was therefore so honored to be invited by renowned glass artist Jaroslav Bejvl who works in the historic town of Novy Bor, to visit his studio and the local glass makers to witness first-hand the amazing legacy of Bohemian glass. Bejvl is a second generation glass artist/blower/craftsman/designers, who has learnt the craft and inherited the passion for glass from his father, legend glass artist Jaroslav Bejvl Sr., who passed away earlier this year. His objects span a variety of techniques, demonstrating the highest level of knowledge and skills, always conversing with the past and at the same time, also possessing the courage required to think outside of the box. Here are some of the objects that I found particularly appealing, showing Bejvl’s talent, imagination, and performance.