"The Loetz glassworks was founded in 1840 by Johann Loetz in Bohemia.  Bohemia, along with Italy, had a long history of glassmaking, and glass industries were closely tied to their national identities.  Loetz pieces were known for subtlety, innovation, simplicity of form and a vibrant lustrous metallic colour."

Paul Schmidt

"The glass chosen for this instrument features contrasting iridescent to opaque golden hues and organic shapes expressing the vitality and boldness of nature’s pervading strength and wildness.  This is some of the most strident art glass from the period.  The serpent theme, derived from the shapes found in the glass, is consistent with Art Nouveau’s attentions to the power and mystery of nature.  The symbology of the serpent is vast and was often used to represent the sacred primal energy of matter.  It was an inspiring figure in the mythologies and rituals of Africa, Ancient China, and many cultures, most notably the Greek gods of poetry, music, healing, and divination.  The obvious serpentine shapes in the glass invite the blonde flamed Maple serpent images for the body, which, though softer in colour than the golden and light green glass, speak through their size, shape, and historical reference.  The earthen-toned spalted Maple that comprises much of the top offers a texture and vibrancy that enhances the vividness of both the serpents and the glass.  Additional woods are Redwood burl, and Rosewood.  The inlays are artfully rendered in silver and pearl, and the knobs and switch are resin and Catalin respectively.  Perhaps the most aggressive instrument of the Nouveau Series brimming with boldness, gold, and more boldness."

Paul Schmidt