Object Description
Monumental Pair of Cut Crystal and Gilt Bronze Vases by Baccarat
By Baccarat (French, founded 1764)
French, 19th century
Vases: Height 136cm, width 70cm, depth 60cm
Plinths: Height 73cm, width 63cm, depth 63cm
Overall: Height 209cm, width 70cm, depth 63cm
This exceptional pair of cut crystal and gilt-bronze-mounted vases was produced by the celebrated French manufactory Baccarat and exemplifies the grandeur and refinement of the French decorative arts of the 19th century. Uniting monumental scale, crystal of remarkable clarity and richly detailed gilt-bronze mounts, the pair stands among the most imposing expressions of the maison’s luxury production.
Each vase is formed as an elegant amphora, raised upon a stepped square base and a knopped, finely faceted stem that supports the ovoid body above. The crystal is worked throughout with a sophisticated programme of cutting and engraving: the lower body is deeply cut with a dense diamond lattice that catches and refracts the light, while the shoulder and neck are engraved with softer, flowing bands of scrolling foliage, stiff-leaf and stylised palmettes. This interplay between the crisp faceted cutting below and the delicate engraved ornament above demonstrates the technical range and virtuosity of the Baccarat workshops at their height.
The vases are mounted throughout with exceptionally fine gilt bronze. Each is fitted with a pair of scrolling handles superbly cast as eagle heads, rising boldly from the shoulder with wings sweeping upward and inset glass eyes lending them a lifelike intensity, the plumage finely chased throughout. The waisted neck is encircled by a gilt-bronze band cast with laurel-leaf swags and anthemion motifs, centred to either side by a lion-mask boss, while further ornament frames the rims and the crystal foot, giving the pair a strong sculptural presence and remarkable decorative richness.
Founded in 1764, Baccarat rose over the following century to become one of the foremost crystal manufactories in Europe, its wares prized by royal, imperial and aristocratic clients across the continent. Each vase stands upon a later velvet-lined wooden plinth, raising the pair to a commanding height. Monumental in scale and superb in execution, this pair perfectly captures the ambition and refinement of the finest 19th-century French crystal production.