Here, where centuriesold craftsmanship meets contemporary innovation, glass ornaments come to life, adorning not just Christmas trees but also telling stories – stories of tradition, innovation, and sustainability. For over 400 years, the art of glassblowing has been passed down through the Müller-Blech family, from one generation to the next. What began in the glassworks of the Thuringian Forest continues today in the INGEGLAS ® MANUFAKTUR. A generational shift has ushered in fresh energy, with new ideas and a sustainable vision bridging the past and the future in a rejuvenated company.
Traditionally, we have been known for high-quality Christmas ornaments, but nowadays we are taking it a step further: with our ornaments and seasonal accessories, we now represent craftsmanship that inspires year-round.
Klaus Müller-Blech, Managing Director
CRAFTSMANSHIP AT ITS FINEST
At the heart of the operation is the INGEGLAS ® MANUFAKTUR. Each glass ornament is created through up to 60 meticulous steps – a fusion of technical precision and artistic dedication. The journey of every piece begins at an open flame, where skilled glassblowers transform molten material into stunning forms. Delicate figures such as angels, Santa Clauses, or birds with spun-glass tails come to life alongside traditional shapes like spheres and tree toppers.
The brilliance of each ornament is achieved through a time-honored technique: silvering with pure sterling silver. Following this, the MANUFAKTUR’s expert painters bring the designs to life with steady hands, adding intricate details that give each ornament its unique character. Every piece is a one-of-a-kind creation, marked by the iconic Sternkrönchen® (star crown), a symbol of authenticity and excellence.
FESTIVE MAGIC WITH RESPONSIBILITY
For the founding family, sustainability is more than a buzzword – it’s a core value deeply embedded in the company’s DNA. The very essence of preserving and evolving centuriesold craftsmanship reflects a commitment to resource conservation. However, the company goes beyond tradition with a holistic sustainability strategy that sets new benchmarks in an industry often dominated by mass production and disposable goods. In production, only responsibly sourced raw materials are used, with a focus on working with regional suppliers. All production waste is meticulously collected, processed, and either reused or recycled. Even the heat generated during the glassblowing process is not wasted; it’s captured and repurposed to power drying ovens and heat the workshop buildings. Additionally, the company has opted to eliminate printed catalogs, reducing paper waste and CO2 emissions.
Sustainability also means investing in people and skills. The company has played a pivotal role in reviving the glassblowing profession, specifically the specialization in Christmas ornaments. After the trade was nearly lost, the company reintroduced apprenticeships in 1999, ensuring the survival of this unique craft. Since 2022, the company has also begun training artisans in glass painting and stained glass, inspiring young talent to pursue careers in these specialized trades. This commitment not only secures its own future workforce but also contributes to preserving a rich heritage of craftsmanship.
Perhaps the most sustainable aspect of the INGEGLAS ® MANUFAKTUR’s products is their exceptional quality. Designed to last for generations, these ornaments defy fleeting trends and stand as enduring treasures. Their timeless designs and superior craftsmanship make them family heirlooms, gaining sentimental and material value with each passing year.
INNOVATION MEETS RENEWAL
With 15 generations of passion for glass and three generations of family management, the company is poised for the future. The current generational leadership is modernizing the brand while honoring its roots. This balance is evident in the development of new designs and a focus on the needs of a younger, global audience.
The MANUFAKTUR doesn’t just produce traditional ornaments; it also explores modern interpretations of Christmas decorations. Color palettes and forms are reimagined annually, always with respect for the heritage of glassblowing. The company’s global reach spans over 40 countries, with more than 125 employees craft ing ornaments that are sold in stores and featured in five dedicated retail locations.
I am very proud to carry our company’s tradition into the next generation and to guide our family business step by step toward the future.
Marie Müller-Blech, Junior Executive/Authorized Signatory
In 1987, the Sternkrönchen® was introduced as a registered trademark. T his unique crown-shaped ornament hanger guarantees that every piece it adorns is a handcraft ed creation from the INGE-GLAS® MANUFAKTUR, made according to centuries-old traditions.
Visitors to the company’s showroom in Neustadt bei Coburg can witness the artistry behind INGEGLAS ® MANUFAKTUR’s creations and draw inspiration from their timeless elegance. A trip wouldn’t be complete without exploring the Historical Christmas Museum, which houses over 20,000 antique Christmas ornaments – a testament to the enduring legacy of the MüllerBlech family.
AN ETERNAL PIECE FOR THE CHRISTMAS TREE
When an ornament from the INGE-GLAS® MANUFAKTUR graces a Christmas tree, it carries more than the brilliance of silver and vibrant hues. It embodies a legacy of craftsmanship, a narrative of resilience, and a promise for the future. These glass masterpieces are more than decorations; they are cherished companions through the holiday season, creating and preserving memories. This is what makes them extraordinary. In Neustadt bei Coburg, the magic of Christmas isn’t just crafted – it’s sustained, reimagined, and shared with the world.
