What Is Antique Czechoslovakia China?

Antique Czechoslovakian China refers to glassware, pottery, porcelain and semi-porcelain made between 1918 and 1938. The style is characterized by bright colors and glassware, molded into a variety of shapes, that is decorated by beads and often depicts flowers, dancing girls and birds. The style draws heavily from Art Deco with Egyptian influences.

Many of the works produced during this period are marked with a symbol on the bottom or side that reads “Made in Czechoslovakia” or some variation thereof. Newer works come with a handwritten sticker applied instead.

Czech glass is distinguished from Bohemian glass by date of manufacture; because Bohemia became Czechoslovakia after 1918, glass made after this year is correctly referred to as Czech glass. However, glassware made after 1950 is labeled as Bohemia crystal.

Both Bohemian and Czech glassware have enjoyed a long and prestigious history, found in the palaces of rulers, including Louis XV, Maria Theresa and Elizabeth of Russia. Crystal chandeliers decorated the homes of the aristocracy. During the second half of the 19th century, Bohemia began to mass-produce and export its glassware. Paired vases were especially popular, decorated with famous scenes or flowers; their purpose was not to provide fine art but serve as ornaments for middle-class homes.