Makma Art Gallery is pleased to present Ruby Red Revival featuring Ruby Red glass masterpieces, by Bohemian Glass Masters.
Of all the rich colors in glass art, Ruby red is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful and mesmerizing.
Red glass was considered magical in many cultures throughout history and favored amongst European royal courts. In Ancient Persia, red glass was thought to attract gold and silver, pulling them similar to a magnet. Despite this high regard for the material, the art and technique of making red glass were lost for many centuries and rediscovered in Bohemia in the mid-19th century.
Historically, red-colored glass was achieved by using small amounts of gold chloride. This essential ingredient made red glass costly and helped to assure its relative rarity.
In Bohemia, the method was renewed to obtain a deep red. The red color was layered over clear glass, allowing artisans to create unique faceting and finely executed cuttings.
These pieces would then be further decorated with exquisite wildlife scenes and delicate foliage that continues to fascinate today.