Lobmeyr

Lobmeyr – Six Generations of Glass History

Founded in 1823 by Josef Lobmeyr Sr. in Vienna, Lobmeyr has a rich history spanning six generations. Initially offering Biedermeier-era glassware and chandeliers, Josef soon began crafting his own designs and supplying imperial House of Habsburg.

Ludwig Lobmeyr, the founder's son, became a key figure in Austrian-Bohemian glass production. He represented Lobmeyr company at the first world exhibitions in the mid-nineteenth century. Also he collaborated with the builders of Vienna’s Ring Road and  in 1864 became a co-founder of the Museum of Applied Arts in Vienna.

From 1902 to 1938 Ludwig’s nephew Stefan Rath led the company into the Modernism era. He co-founded the Austrian Werkbund in 1912 and, while working together with designers like Josef Hoffmann and Adolf Loos, created timeless modern classics design.

Hans Harald Rath took over in 1938, securing significant chandelier orders even during the war. After losing Bohemian glass sources in post-World War II, he played a crucial role, rebuilding Austria’s glassmaking industry, also Hans Harald founded glassmaking school in Kramsach. Under his leadership, Lobmeyr’s innovative lighting fixtures cemented company's reputation in the field of modern crystal lighting. They also had commissions for the Vienna State Opera and the Metropolitan Opera in New York.

After their father’s death, Harald, Peter and Stefan Rath took control of the company in 1968. They combined tradition with modern design and integrated Viennese chandelier manufacturer Jos. Zahn & Co. in 1972, establishing a studio for artistic glassmaking in Franzensbad in 1975. They also began renovating flagship store on Kärntner Straße in 1987, adding the Vienna Glass Museum on the second floor.

Today, Lobmeyr is under the leading of sixth generation, including cousins Andreas, Leonid and Johannes Rath. They focus on collaborating with new designers to update product range and meet modern needs. Also they work on expanding their international activities. While adapting to modernity, new generation maintain Lobmeyr's core values of authenticity, fine craftsmanship and outstanding design.