Since 1724, Preciosa has strengthened and deepened its knowledge of the characteristic properties of crystal glass to masterly perfection, producing and cultivating chandeliers according to original Bohemian traditions. The very highest standards of craftsmanship and unique technical knowledge make Preciosa one of the world's leading manufacturers of fine glass chandeliers. The company actively ensures the development and evolution of its centuries-old know-how, combining ancient techniques with modern day technology, in such ways that the true original spirit of the chandeliers is never lost and the cultivation of their intent and beauty continues.

In order to preserve the culture of chandeliers, it is necessary to understand their significance in history, how they relate to the past, but importantly, how they are also relevant today. Preciosa holds an innate appreciation for chandeliers and uniquely, is able to recognise their potential for both the present and the future; innovating whilst cherishing at the same time. Thanks to this approach, Preciosa chandeliers have long been, and are still, permanent protagonists of contemporary lifestyle and this has enabled them to stand at the forefront of style through every era.

Bohemian Chandeliers

Historic Cultivation

Understanding the tradition, not just relating to crafts but also to the chandelier's role in the past, forms a substantial part of Preciosa's vision for the future.

As different as the chandeliers may seem, their forms and styles are mostly derived from the 'iconic chandeliers' that have a formative influence. The different styles overlap, also influencing each other, and they have been continuously developed further since their original conception. No revolution is necessary. Instead, you need to understand tradition, zeitgeist, and have the courage to continuously innovate traditional as well as iconic chandeliers.

Various classic chandelier styles have inspired each other over centuries and decades, and some of them have blended. Thanks to new production methods and materials, they have been revived and rarely reflect the status quo.

Contemporary Cultivation

'Cultivation of Chandeliers' expresses what Preciosa has been celebrating for many years in the Bohemian tradition dating back to 1724. Cultivating and manufacturing chandeliers – and, most importantly, keeping them so vivid that they always reflect the zeitgeist, a lifestyle, and make a statement for the future. Preciosa presents two renewal models with long-term potential for classic chandeliers:

Contemporary Colours

The shape, beauty and authenticity of the historical design continue and are presented with colours appealing to traditional and contemporary tastes alike.

New Interpretations

The design intent of the historic piece is extracted and given to a contemporary designer from which to create a new interpretation, out of the context of time, yet without losing the original meaning.

-ENDS-

Notes to Editors:

About Preciosa

PRECIOSA

Preciosa Lighting is part of the Preciosa Group, which is one of the world's leading companies in the field of high-precision cut crystal components. The roots of the company, whose registered office is in Kamenický Šenov in the Czech Republic, go back to the year 1724. Over the centuries Preciosa has consolidated and expanded its knowledge of the characteristic properties of crystal – transparency, fragility and the ability to change its shape when in liquid form – into masterly expertise.

The highest standards of craftsmanship, unique technical know-how and the distinctiveness of its designs have today guaranteed Preciosa a place among the world's leading producers of top-quality cut crystal. Preciosa Lighting's classic chandelier lighting can be found all over the globe, in Versailles, St. Petersburg, London, Dubai, Macao and New York, in both public and private palaces and residences. Preciosa's impressive product range also includes jewellery, gift items, crystal components for the jewellery and fashion industries and the legendary, beautifully cut crystal beads.

In early 2017, in the heart of Prague, a new chapter in Preciosa's rich Bohemian Crystal history began. Whilst cherishing the traditions of the last three hundred years, and honouring the iconic designs of this history, at its new Flagship Store Preciosa presents the brilliance and craftsmanship of its chandeliers for the next generation to experience.

BOHEMIAN CRYSTAL

Bohemian Crystal draws on local natural wealth, together with the masterful craftsmanship and indomitable will of its people to embellish the world. The beginnings of the glassmaking tradition in Bohemia are closely tied to the production of pearls. But it was in 1724, that Josef Palme obtained permission to produce chandeliers, enabling Bohemian Crystal to finally blossom in its full glory and illuminate Europe with its mesmerizing brilliance.

Bohemian Crystal and chandeliers soon made their way to being one of the most sought-after possessions, along with famous pieces from England, France or Italy. Bohemian chandeliers went on to adorn the residences of many noble elites and sovereign families.

Just like today, the chandeliers were born from the hands of Bohemian glass makers. A true embellishment of the most fabled of royal courts, they were the most iconic masterpieces – unique jewels that now bear the names of their original owners – Empress Maria Theresa, Prince Eugene of Savoy or King Louis XIV.

The charm of Bohemian chandeliers, however, does not only dwell in their timeless characters. It also stands out in the uniqueness of every single piece of trimming, regardless of the era or architectonic style. Its present form, wedded elegantly with tradition, can be found in residences and palaces from Dubai to New York.

CRYSTAL VALLEY

North Bohemia

The most beautiful crystal chandeliers that decorate large historical palaces, museums, opera houses and hotels around the world come from a small, mountainous region in north Bohemia: Crystal Valley.

Thanks to the region's natural wealth and especially due to local craftsmanship and talent, the glassmaking traditions of Kamenický Šenov, home to Preciosa Lighting's main production facility, have remained unspoiled for centuries. The oldest glassworks site found in Crystal Valley dates back to 1250. From the 17th Century crystal clear glass, called Bohemian Crystal, started to be melted down and shaped. This glass became a local speciality and became so popular around the world, that the Czech lands became the most important glass exporter in the world by the mid-18th Century. At this time the first workshops specialising in the production of crystal lights started to appear in Crystal Valley. The oldest professional glassmaking school in Europe has operated in Kamenický Šenov since 1856 and this, together with the local tradition of fathers passing glassmaking skills down to their children, has had a major impact on the craft and technical skills of local master glassmakers. To this day, local people continue to protect the glass making secrets of their ancestors as part of the local tradition. Today Crystal Valley is still the most important region in the world for the production of crystal chandeliers