The ABC collection, designed for Rückl by Rony Plesl, is an example of how traditional glass cutting techniques can be interpreted in a modern way. Instead of traditional shapes, the collection references emotional memories – lovers’ initials carved in the bark of a tree or a sweet message on a heart bought at the funfair. Each glass bears a letter, a number or a special character, providing the opportunity to create countless combinations of one’s own message. Plesl’s crystal alphabet offers a chance to express oneself in a completely new language while revisiting the ancient traditions of glassmaking.

Rony Plesl (* 1965) is among the foremost Czech glass artists and designers. In his art, he specializes in the use of fused glass sculpture and uranium glass, for which he employs the unique Vitrum Vivum technology. He has designed for companies such as Cartier, Barovier & Toso, Bomma, Moser, Pilsner Urquell, Rückl, Sahm and many others. Since 2008, he has directed the Glass and Ceramics Studio at the Academy of Arts, Architecture and Design in Prague. Plesl’s works are represented in public and private collections both in Czechia and abroad. He has received many awards for his work, including the Good Design Award (2019, 2013, 2010), Red Dot Award (2019, 2007) or the Czech Grand Design award (2011).

The history of the family-owned Rückl glassworks dates back to 1846, when Czech crystal with the stork logo first appeared in the Central Bohemian town of Nižbor. Local craftsmen are renowned for their hand-cutting and engraving skills, which the new company management turned into a successful marketing tool. Rony Plesl’s excellent designs use the specific pink color of the glass and as well as modern hand-cutting techniques, which has given Rückl an easily recognizable identity making them stand out from the competition.