{"product_id":"saint-louis-art-nouveau-crystal-vase-desire-christian-period-c-1900","title":"Saint-Louis Art Nouveau Crystal Vase, Désiré Christian Period, C.1900","description":"\u003cp\u003eAn exceptional Art Nouveau baluster-form crystal vase by Saint-Louis, created circa 1900–1906 during the artistic direction of Désiré Christian (1846–1907). The model reflects the naturalistic vocabulary and technical experimentation associated with Christian’s tenure at the Cristallerie de Saint-Louis. It features acid-etched decoration on a wax-resist moiré ground ('fond moiré à la cire') with fired gold highlights. The surface is intricately engraved with a dense foliate background and overlaid with cobalt blue honeysuckle motifs, creating depth, luminosity, and layered contrast characteristic of refined French Art Nouveau glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe subtle tonal variations visible across the amber-toned body are inherent to the wax-resist acid-etching process. This technique intentionally produces a modulated, softly shaded surface that enhances the relief carving and light diffusion. When illuminated, the crystal reveals a rich golden glow beneath the engraved foliage, demonstrating the sophistication of the process.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAbout Saint-Louis and Désiré Christian\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFounded in 1586 in Lorraine, the Cristallerie de Saint-Louis is the oldest crystal factory in France and in continental Europe. In 1767, King Louis XV designated the factory as the Verrerie Royale de Saint-Louis (Royal Glassworks of Saint-Louis), an early recognition of its excellence in glassmaking. Within a few years, Saint-Louis became the first producer on the European continent to master true lead crystal, a technical innovation previously held as a secret in England. Over centuries, Saint-Louis has maintained artisanal processes — mouthblown crystal, hand-cutting, engraving, and gilding — that place it among the historic French luxury crystal houses, alongside Baccarat and Lalique, each with its own distinct artistic identity. Under the artistic direction of Désiré Christian and other lead designers in the late 19th–early 20th centuries, the house produced some of its most refined decorative pieces, combining technical sophistication with Art Nouveau aesthetics.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eDésiré Christian (1846–1907) served as artistic director during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Under his direction, Saint-Louis embraced the Art Nouveau movement, developing models characterized by acid-etching, layered coloration, and naturalistic ornament. The present vase belongs to this creative period, reflecting the aesthetic and technical direction associated with Christian’s leadership.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eThe vase bears the Saint-Louis amphora acid stamp to the base, consistent with production from the period.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCondition\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eVery good vintage condition with no chips, cracks, or repairs. The engraved crystal remains crisp and luminous. Subtle tonal variations in the amber ground are inherent to the wax-resist moiré and acid-etched technique and form part of the original decorative effect. Light surface wear and minor scratches to the underside of the foot are consistent with age and careful use.\u003cbr\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApprox. dimensions\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eHeight: 7.87 in (20 cm); Diameter: 4.53 in (11.5 cm)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eApprox. weight\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e2.05 lb (0.93 kg)\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eShipping \u0026amp; Insurance\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis item will be carefully packed and shipped fully insured.\u003cbr\u003eShipping costs and any applicable import duties or taxes are calculated at checkout.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cem\u003eInterior images are shown for visual context only. Decorative accessories not included.\u003c\/em\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Maison Lune Collection","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":56586810818891,"sku":"CA0116","price":2300.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0998\/9645\/9595\/files\/Untitled-30.jpg?v=1771782988","url":"https:\/\/maisonlunecollection.com\/products\/saint-louis-art-nouveau-crystal-vase-desire-christian-period-c-1900","provider":"Maison Lune Collection","version":"1.0","type":"link"}