While Bohemian crystal and glass have graced the noblest tables of Europe, down-market lines have long been affordable for almost anyone.

Many feature thickly enamelled flower subjects that were painted with great speed. Other mass-produced pieces were decorated with colored lithographic prints copying famous paintings - inexpensive decor to brighten up ordinary homes.

Reverse glass painting is another Czech specialty: Images traditionally were carefully painted by hand on the back of panes of glass, which were later mounted in a beveled wooden frame.

Techniques still popular for glassware today include black staining, painted panels and stained glass.

(China Daily 06/02/2013 page13)