Vase c. 1870 - 1880

This vase was made by J. & L. Lobmeyr, but the precise date of its creation is unknown. Lobmeyr was a Bohemian glass company that specialized in luxury glassware. This vase presents an interesting case study in cultural appropriation and orientalism. The intricate patterns and motifs, rendered in gold and blue, are clearly inspired by Islamic art, specifically the geometric designs found in mosques and other religious buildings. Bohemia, now part of the Czech Republic, was a region with a long history of glassmaking, and Lobmeyr was known for its innovative designs and high-quality craftsmanship. In the 19th century, there was a growing fascination with the "Orient" in Europe, and many artists and designers drew inspiration from Islamic art and culture, sometimes appropriating these styles without fully understanding their cultural significance. As historians, we must consider the cultural context in which this vase was made, including the power dynamics between Europe and the Islamic world at the time. Researching the history of Lobmeyr and its relationship to Islamic art, as well as the broader cultural trends of orientalism and cultural appropriation in 19th-century Europe, can help us better understand the meaning and significance of this work.