Orrefors Crystal

Along with Kosta Boda, Orrefors is considered to be one of the most significant contributors to the Swedish glassmaking tradition. Originating in the rural south of Sweden, Orrefors glass has a history that spans over two hundred years.

Glassmaking was already a tradition in the region of Orrefors as early as the 18th century, with producers creating a range of relatively utilitarian glassware for the local communities. Orrefors glass grew into prominence in the early 20th century when glassmakers and artists began to collaborate on innovative art glass pieces.

It was these highly finessed and elegantly-engraved pieces that accelerated Orrefor's notoriety, particularly as they began showcasing their works at international exhibitions. Over the decades, Orrefors welcomed some of the most acclaimed Swedish designers of the day. From Nils Landberg and his Tylip Glass in the '50s to Gunnar Cyran's '60s Pop Glass, Orrefors ensured the consistent quality of their pieces combined with their unrelenting attention to contemporary trends.

Quick Facts

• The village of Orrefors took root in 1726 when an ambitious ironsmith Lars Johan Silversparre set up shop there. Choosing the location in part for the area's waterways, Silversparre named the area Orrefors, which translates to "Orre waterfall"
• Ingeborg Lundin was the first female designer to be hired by Orrefors, joining the team in 1947. One of her most treasured creations was the Apple line
• The '80s witnessed the arrival of the Orrefors Gallery, a new collection of art glass pieces offered only in limited editions and designed to showcase the talents of the company's contemporary designers