The full story of Kralik and Rindskopf is deeply intermeshed with the complex goings on of the bohemian glass industry of the time. Mike Moir explains

IN THE LATE 1800s, Kralik and Rindskopf were two of a large number of aspiring glass houses owned by major glass dynasties. They were both located in the middle of Bohemia or, to give it its correct name, the Austro- Hungarian Empire. Like their numerous competitors, Kralik and Rindskopf were always looking to see if they could develop profitable markets. To survive they had do be very aware of new trends in glass, including what their competitors could do and what was selling, especially to the rich. 

Origins of Commercial Iridised Glass As the century drew to a close, iridised glass making was one of the big new things. Pieces of iridised glass were first found among Roman ruins. It was thought that the Romans had made glass with a strange reflective surface and it was unlike anything ‘modern’ glass-makers could produce. In reality, it was not the Romans that had created this effect; it was two thousand years of being buried in the ground that had caused it....'

The Rolls Royce of wallpapers - Zuber & Company have been hand-making superb wallpapers for over 200 years.

'Zuber is famous for making what many consider to be the most beautiful and elaborate wallpaper in the world. Originally this French company was set up under the name of Nicolas Dolfus & Cie. But in 1795 it changed its name to Hartmann, Risler & Cie and two years later it moved to the commandery of Rixheim at the Mulhouse city gates...'

If you wish to capture the hottest look in fashion, the current trends in textiles, demonstrations, events and workshops, then look no further and get your diary out; they’ve come to you!

'With ‘Granny chic’ on the catwalk and on the front covers of style magazines, it’s no wonder that Frock Me! Vintage Fashion Fairs in Chelsea and Brighton have become so incredibly successful. They are hugely popular with major designers, stylists, models and celebrities – you never know who you are going to bump into next – Paul Smith, Kylie, Annie Lennox and Yoko Ono are all big fans and are often seen browsing for bargains and inspiration! Two important dates for your diary are the Brighton Vintage Fashion Fair on Sunday 3rd May, followed by Chelsea on Sunday 17th May.

For all those who'd love a Cornwall break away or have a passion for fashion and textiles, then Cowslip Workshops is just the place for you! Classes and courses are run in all types of quilt making, various textile arts and crafts, with tutors visiting from all over the world. This summer Charlotte Yde from Denmark will be running a Photoshop class for textile students, Amy Butler – Designer from America – will be giving a lecture and day cla s using her fabrics and patterns, and Brandon Mably who works with Kaffe Fassett will be giving a two day knitting workshop on colour....'

If you’re looking for antique, vintage, mid century or 20th century designer lighting; look no further than our recommended online lighting specialists, who can offer a great selection to choose from, and all currently available for sale

'molecula.co.uk is an online design portal powered by two like-minded individuals. Specialising in Vintage Modernism from the Bauhaus era to the 70s. Each item is carefully chosen for its style, design, beauty and extravagance. All items are conserved where possible or restored if necessary, and there are no reproductions or copies.

Find molecula at: Salisbury Antiques Centre, Wiltshire. Midcentury Modern, Dulwich College, London. The Midcentury Show, De La Warr Pavillion, Bexhill on Sea, East Sussex. Above: A J Royal ceiling pendant is a crisp and minimal piece, measuring 50 cms in diameter and housing for four bulbs. The sleek, pared-down design softly emits light upwards through the stepped louvres at the top of the fixture, to create an eye-catching effect. Designed by Arne Jacobsen in 1957 for the SAS Hotel, Copenhagen. Manufactured by Louis Poulsen. Price: £345.00...'