First comprehensive biography of Otto Schott published: New book honors the life and legacy of the glass pioneer

Founder of modern glass science and technology

In the late 19th century, Otto Schott put glass manufacturing on a scientific footing. Working closely with Ernst Abbe, he developed new types of optical glass and, in 1884, founded the “Glastechnisches Laboratorium Schott & Gen.” in Jena together with Abbe, Carl Zeiss, and Roderich Zeiss. With innovations such as chemically resistant borosilicate glass capable of withstanding heat and rapid temperature changes, he enabled new applications in science, technology, and industry and became a pioneer of the specialty glass industry.

The 240-page biography is the first to provide a comprehensive account of his life as a scientist, inventor, entrepreneur, and committed citizen. Historical documents, anecdotes, and perspectives from contemporary figures complement the portrait.

At the same time, the book traces the first decades of SCHOTT’s corporate and innovation history and provides insights into half a century of Jena’s history, including Schott’s efforts to improve housing conditions and urban infrastructure, as well as his support for the university and charitable projects.

“Otto Schott is an icon of glass science and the glass industry. He was the finest basic and applied researcher the history of glass has ever seen. His groundbreaking development work made him one of the most important inventors of his time,” says author Jürgen Steiner, summing up Otto Schott’s life’s work. “At the same time, he was a pioneer of sustainable corporate management and a committed citizen, guided by a clear inner compass and strong values.”

Robert Köhler, Editor Corporate Publishing at Herder, adds: “Jürgen Steiner’s book is the first comprehensive biography of Otto Schott. It tells the story of his life’s work, his vision, and the lasting impact he has had to this day. Engaging, well-researched, and accessible, it is an outstanding publication that invites readers to browse, discover, and be inspired.”

A legacy that continues to shape the present

Otto Schott’s combination of scientific research and practical application continues to shape both SCHOTT and the glass industry as a whole. The company’s unique ownership structure also dates back to this period: Schott supported Ernst Abbe’s idea of establishing the Carl Zeiss Foundation and was later described by Abbe as its “co-founder.”

SCHOTT CEO Dr. Torsten Derr sees the company’s founder as a role model: “Otto Schott was a remarkable and inspiring personality. With great passion and determination, he achieved the breakthrough that established modern glass science and, in doing so, founded the specialty glass industry as a new sector. This is his lasting legacy. Beyond that, he helped establish a unique corporate culture based on responsibility and respect for employees. In this way, he laid the foundation for SCHOTT’s development into a successful global company. His life’s work makes him a great role model for us.”

The book and its author

“The Glass Pioneer. Otto Schott 1851–1935” by Jürgen Steiner (240 pages) has been published by Herder under ISBN 978-3-451-07363-2. The biography is available in German and English in print and as an e-book (PDF).

Dr. Jürgen Steiner (born 1956) worked in Corporate Communications at SCHOTT until 2022. During his 33 years with the specialty glass and materials manufacturer, he focused on Executive Board communications, corporate culture, sustainability, corporate social responsibility, and company history.