Black Forest utility glass
Glass was discovered over 5,000 years ago in Egypt and Mesopotamia by chance. Due to the high level of craftsmanship involved, it was long considered a luxury item and was reserved for the nobility. It was not until the 18th century that everyday glass began to be produced on a larger scale in Germany.
The Black Forest glassworks mainly produced simple everyday glassware without elaborate decoration. The exhibition shows an impressive variety of such glass objects from the 18th to the 20th century, including Netzschüssele, Fadenzainle, Kreuzschnäbel, christening bottles, Bier-Liesel and Geldkatzen.
The exhibition concept and the numerous exhibits are the result of decades of collecting and research by Monika and Horst Degen, who have made their collection exclusively available to the municipality of Schluchsee. The exhibition architecture picks up on the two main themes in terms of design: Black Forest utility glass is presented in light wood colours, while the cabinet of the Aeule glassworks with its dark, charred tones is reminiscent of the atmosphere of a smoky glassworks. The two areas are connected by a model of a melting furnace.
Visitors can explore the exhibition on their own. Additional information on the exhibits can be accessed via QR codes. Numerous drawers invite visitors to view selected pieces up close. A visit to the exhibition becomes particularly lively during a personalised guided tour, which is available on request. For children, the figure "Noppi", a little glass man, playfully accompanies them through the exhibition.
Admission tickets are available at the Schluchsee Tourist Information Centre during opening hours. Different times may apply at weekends and on public holidays.