Massive Glass Skeleton Set to Dazzle Visitors at Prague’s Máj Department Store!
A remarkable glass skeleton, stretching five meters in length and weighing 800 kilograms, has been created as the largest of its kind worldwide and will soon be the stunning centerpiece of Prague’s Máj department store.
Meticulously crafted by expert glassmakers from Železný Brod, this impressive skeleton is made up of 37 uniquely designed glass parts, with the skull alone tipping the scales at an astonishing 200 kilograms.
The ambitious project, initiated by the store’s owners in collaboration with their architects, took an entire year to transform from a creative idea into a tangible masterpiece. The well-known Lhotský Glass Studio spearheaded this endeavor, employing advanced techniques such as 3D modeling, wax molding, and sandstone casting to bring it to life.
“When we were asked if it was feasible, we confidently responded, ‘Everything is possible,’” remarked Martina Kulhavá from Lhotský Glass Studio.
The team utilized a specialized type of glass known as Banas Glass, selected for its suitability for large-scale sculptures. Each individual piece went through a rigorous sanding and polishing process to achieve a rich blue color, as specifically requested by the project’s benefactors.
According to studio founder Zdeněk Lhotský, the entire process was highly intricate and involved the revival of ancient casting methods that were first brought back to life in the 20th century.
The spectacular skeleton is scheduled to be installed in late March, suspended elegantly above a bar area with the help of nearly invisible stainless steel cables that will give it an almost floating appearance.
To further enhance the sculpture’s captivating look, a custom lighting system has been designed by Artglass Studio, located in Jablonec nad Nisou, which will highlight the ethereal quality of the piece, making it appear as though it is suspended in the air.
This project marks another significant achievement for the talented glassmakers of Železný Brod. Their portfolio includes creating a glass sarcophagus for the Danish royal family, which happens to be one of the largest glass sculptures ever produced, weighing in at 4.5 tons.
