After searching for the place and experiment-
ing with technologies, the designer bought a
glass factory in Wingen-sur-Moder (France)
and in 1921 finally settled on his own manu-
facturing. In 1925 Lalique participated in a
worldwide exposition in Paris with his glass
collection. The triumph has repeated itself –
the best art nouveau jeweller has become the
best glass master in art deco.
Big orders poured down the factory. Lal-
ique glass panels and chandeliers decorated
cruise liners (the brand’s involvement was
especially noticeable on the Normandie liner
– a famous art deco masterpiece), Pullman
wagon trains, hotels and churches. Unlike the
jewellery story, René Lalique was not tired of
glass. After he passed away the factory has
continued its existence under his children’s
supervision, who inherited their father’s pas-
sion for glass.
The brand hasn’t marched all cheerful into
the 2000s. Similar to all the previously glori-
ous antique factories, it has survived through
crises of self-determination. As it has always
been with Lalique himself, one occasion
helped. Silvio Denz, Swiss businessman who
was Lalique’s passionate fan and owner of
the biggest collection of things, bought the
company
in 2008. Millionth investment has been made
and life has boiled again. Several years ago
to mark the 150 years since the founder’s
birthday, the Hommage à René Lalique col-
lection was launched. It brought life back
to many historically acknowledged works of
Rene Lalique, which could be previously seen
only at museums.
supported by EUROBAK
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