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Early History of Snow Globes production
At the height of the industrial revolution in the nineteenth century the standard of living improved both in the middle classes and across a wider section of society. There was an increased interest in how to take advantage of leisure time rather than lounging in one of the hostelries so plentiful at that time or taking a mere stroll to the park. As with other leisure pursuits, tourism became an organised activity. Regional hiking clubs sprang up to care for and maintain paths and signposting, eventually to oversee the construction of many out-look towers on the tops of hills.
The construction of such towers led to greater efforts to provide the walker with rest and refreshments, the sale of postcards and souvenirs. A serious outing typically merited a metal medallion hammered to the compulsory cane; other items were made of wood, porcelain or glass.
The Jizerské Mountains glass workers seized the opportunity and created various painted glass glasses and plates, and polished, painted and engraved mirrors.
Some of the most popular keepsakes were made in Desna, including the snow globe, evoking memories of the light grey heavenly dome from which snow fell gently, blanketing a fairytale landscape with sparkling whiteness.
Production started in the last quarter of the 19th Century after much experimentation by one of the Desna glass workers. He used glass balls made in the local glassworks. Porcelain figures and models of well-known buildings were made to his design at the local porcelain works. Plinths were turned from woods of different colours native to the Jizerské Mountains. Later, the Glassworks at Poluben made plinths from coloured glass.
The long-lasting clarity and waterproof properties of the Snow Globe, including its whiteness were kept strictly secret. Snow Globes sold under the logo Stále sneží ("Snowing Forever") became popular ornaments for the bureaux and conservatories of our mothers and grandmothers. Snow Globe manufacture continued for about 70 years, finally coming to an end in 1947.
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Tony Hnilica - *AJH* Custom Knives &Services
