History of Hofbauer Crystal
Hofbauer Crystal Co. ofWest Germany produced collectible lead crystal in the mid- to late 1900s.Though the company is now defunct, their lead crystal pieces are popularpurchases at flea markets, online auctions, and antique stores. The history ofthe company is a part of the history of glass making in the Bavarian region ofGermany.
Northern Bavaria was aquiet, undeveloped area until the late 1800s. At that time, the construction ofrailroads brought about new economic development. The transport of materialsfor industry became easier, and there was land where factories could be built.Glassmaking had been a part of the region for many years, but now the export ofwood from the forest and the import of coal for fuel made the area ripe fordevelopment. The area around Neustadt a.d. Waldnaab experienced great growth inthe glassmaking industry because the town was at the railhead.
Many companies established their glass makingindustries in the region. Among those were Schrenk and Company, Tritschler,Winter Halter, Nachtmann, and Hofbauer. These companies thrived throughout themid-1900s. In time, though, the businesses declined, and most were closed. Thesurviving glass company in the region is Nachtmann. Hofbauer Crystal was one ofthe businesses that closed sometime in the late 1900s.
HofbauerByrdes Crystal is noted for its traditional bird design cut into the glass.Sometimes a three-dimensional bird finial will top the design of a candy dishor compote. There are several varieties of this crystal that are color enhanced.Replacements Ltd. lists a blue, gold and ruby variety of the familiar Byrdesline.
Papillon Crystal
Anothervariety of Hofbauer crystal is the Papillon design. These pieces are decoratedwith crisscross lines and frosted butterflies. These pieces seem to be lesscommon among collectibles.
Thereare other utilitarian and decorative patterns of Hofbauer crystal available tocollectors. Some of these will include a flash of color in the design. Onevariety is pink colored throughout. One of the most unusual lines of crystalwas called Magic Crystal for Men. These pieces were crystal replicas of sportscars, bicycles and motorcycles.