Setpember 8th, 2023 by Felicitas Petersen & Sophia Wolf
Exhibition at MAK in Celebration of the 200th Birthday of J. & L. Lobmeyr
Vienna, Austria
Stepping into the foyer of
MAK, the Museum of Applied Arts, is like a refreshing breeze on a hot summer day. Designed by Heinrich Ferstel and opened in 1871 on Stubenring, inspired by the V & A Museum in London, MAK offers an inviting entry into the world of art and design. However, the real magic awaits within as you enter the Lobmeyr exhibition.
Upon crossing the threshold, visitors are greeted by a veritable "Crystal Heaven." The rooms are swathed in darkness, and the narrow foyer, adorned with the exquisite glass creations of the Viennese glass manufacturer, rests beneath a shroud of darkened mirror film. Alice Stori Liechtenstein, the curator of this extraordinary exhibition, accentuates the profound interplay of light and shadow, which serves as the perfect backdrop to showcase the Lobmeyr family's legacy. This year marks the 200th birthday of
J.&L. Lobmeyr, a company now in its sixth generation, with leadership entrusted to the Rath family. Remarkably, their production remains a testament to Viennese craftsmanship, still meticulously handcrafted in the heart of Vienna's 3rd district.
One cannot help but be mesmerized by the ever-shifting kaleidoscope of colors that dance upon Lobmeyr's glassware, depending on the angle of light. The Alpha Series, a collection of feather-light, ultra-thin water glasses designed by Harald Rath (the grandfather of the current owners) in 1952, stands out as a captivating masterpiece. Honored with the "Gute Form" design prize in 1964, these glasses are more than utilitarian objects; they are works of art that elevate the everyday. It's no wonder that the series continues to be revered as a "bestseller" even today.
Now, you might wonder, what sets apart a visit to the store on Kärntner Straße from this exhibition?
In essence, the museum offers a unique opportunity to explore the original designs, peruse photographs showcasing Austrian chandeliers gracing global locales (such as the MET in New York or the Kremlin), and marvel at unique art objects alongside everyday treasures—pieces that have been reimagined time and again by artists like
Nives Widauer and designers like
Susanne Bisovsky. Within these walls, you'll encounter collector's items and gain insight into the countless hours of craftsmanship that breathe life into each Lobmeyr creation.
Beyond Lobmeyr's in-house designs, the exhibition celebrates collaborations with renowned artists such as Theophil Hansen, Adolf Loos, Marianne Rath, and POLKA, which has become synonymous with Lobmeyr. This enduring partnership between a glass manufacturer and creative minds is unparalleled worldwide, and we take pride in having such family-run enterprises in Vienna.
As we join in celebrating Lobmeyr's 200th birthday, we extend our warmest wishes and congratulations.
Happy Birthday!
The "Glanz und Glamour" exhibition will grace MAK's halls until September 24, 2023, and comes highly recommended and #artissimiapproved! The Kärntner Straße store welcomes visitors during its regular opening hours, details of which can be found in the
LINK. Additionally, the museum boasts a delightful shop and an
excellent restaurant complete with a charming garden—an oasis for art enthusiasts and epicures alike.
We look forward welcoming you in Vienna again!
Yours sinserely,
The Artissimi Team