Jiří ZEJMON

He began his artistic career at the Academy of Arts, Architecture & Design in Prague under the guidance of renowned professor Karl Štipl, where he acquired a solid foundation in glass design. Right after his studies, he joined the prestigious Inwald Glassworks, which at the time focused on advancing the technology of pressed glass. At Inwald, where his classmate Hanuš and acclaimed designer Rudolf Schrötter led creative efforts, young designers began to emerge with bold designs that gradually shaped the face of pressed glass.

A significant milestone in his career came with the establishment of the Technical and Artistic Center for Pressed Glass in 1955. Here, in collaboration with Schrötter and Hanuš, Zejmon began executing his first designs, reflected in the glassworks Rudolfova huť, Heřmanova huť, and Rosice near Brno. Each of these works bore his signature style—simplicity blended with refined details that captured attention and ensured commercial success.

At this stage, Zejmon emerged as one of the most talented creators in pressed glass, and was among the first to depart from traditional designs, bringing fresh concepts with an emphasis on modern looks and functionality. By 1960, he became the head of pressed glass design at Skloexport, where he created unique pieces combining aesthetics with practicality.

One of Zejmon's most renowned works is a vase from 1969, model number 13261, popularly known as the “panelák” for its resemblance to building blocks. This vase even appeared in the movie The Matrix, where Neo accidentally breaks it. A lesser-known piece is his 1962 vase, model number 13098, standing 20 cm high and evoking an opening flower bud. This design, heavily inspired by nature, also reflects the aesthetic of the 1960s and 70s.

After 1971, when Zejmon became head of Glassexport’s marketing department, his creative output gradually declined, but his previous works remain icons of pressed glass.

He actively supported advancements in combined blowing and pressing glass technology. This new production method used compressed air to shape glass, offering distinct advantages—producing lighter, thinner glass items. The glass produced through this process was of high quality and aesthetic value, as proven by the success of collections from the Libochovice glassworks. (New Technology New Types of Glassware, in: Glass Review, 10/1970)

Zejmon's contribution to Czechoslovak glassmaking remains indelible. His works continue to appear in collections cherished by glass enthusiasts worldwide.