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Val Saint Lambert E.L. 301 Overlay Crystal Bowl Belgium, designed for the Liège International Exposition, 1930
€350Bid from €340
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Private sellerBruxelles, BelgiumOn Whoppah since April 2024 • 74 sales
Product description
Val Saint Lambert E.L. 301 Overlay Crystal Bowl
Belgium, designed for the Liège International Exposition, 1930
A museum-quality example of Belgian Art Deco crystal, this exceptional double-overlay (cased) crystal bowl was produced by Val Saint Lambert specifically for the 1930 International Exposition in Liège, organized to celebrate the Centenary of Belgian Independence. Its inclusion in the official 1930 exhibition catalogue under the designation E.L. 301—“E.L.” standing for Exposition de Liège—firmly documents both its authenticity and its prestigious origin.
Entirely handcrafted from richly coloured green overlay crystal, the bowl demonstrates the extraordinary technical mastery for which Val Saint Lambert became internationally renowned. After gathering the crystal, skilled artisans hand-cut through the outer coloured layer to reveal the clear crystal beneath, creating a striking interplay of luminous olive-green surfaces and brilliantly faceted transparent motifs. Every stage of production—from blowing to cutting and polishing—was executed by hand.
The design perfectly embodies the refined geometry of Belgian Art Deco and bears the unmistakable influence of Joseph Simon, the legendary artistic director whose work defined Val Saint Lambert during its most celebrated creative period. The rhythmic almond-shaped cut decoration, bold architectural silhouette, and perfectly balanced proportions are all characteristic elements associated with Simon’s iconic designs of the late 1920s and early 1930s.
Produced as part of the prestigious collection presented at the Liège Exposition, models from the E.L. series represent some of the manufactory’s finest artistic achievements. They were intended not as ordinary domestic wares, but as showcase pieces demonstrating the technical and artistic excellence of Belgian crystal to an international audience.
Today, examples from this series are exceptionally scarce, particularly in such well-preserved condition. Combining impeccable provenance, documented catalogue reference, outstanding craftsmanship, and direct association with one of Belgium’s most important international exhibitions, this bowl stands among the most desirable creations of Val Saint Lambert’s Art Deco period—a highly collectible work worthy of the finest private collections and museum displays.
Condition: Excellent antique condition with no chips, cracks, or restorations. Displays beautifully, with outstanding brilliance and exceptional light reflection characteristic of the finest hand-cut overlay crystal.
Val Saint Lambert, nestled in Seraing near Liège, Belgium, is a beacon of crystal craftsmanship with a legacy spanning nearly two centuries. Established in 1826 by chemist François Kemlin and engineer Auguste Lelièvre, the company transformed the remnants of the Val-Saint-Lambert Abbey into a thriving glassworks.
The 19th century marked a period of significant growth for Val Saint Lambert. By the early 1900s, the company employed over 5,000 workers, producing 120,000 pieces of glass daily. Their creations, renowned for exceptional quality and intricate designs, found admirers worldwide, including in Tsarist Russia and North America. A testament to their artistry is the “Vase of the Nine Provinces,” a monumental piece over 2 meters tall and weighing 200 kilograms, crafted for the 1894 World Exhibition in Antwerp.
The 20th century brought challenges, including the impacts of two World Wars and economic downturns. Despite these obstacles, Val Saint Lambert’s resilience ensured the preservation of its artisanal heritage. Today, the company seamlessly blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, producing exquisite crystal pieces that cater to modern aesthetics.
Val Saint Lambert stands as a symbol of Belgian craftsmanship, where each piece reflects a harmonious blend of history, artistry, and innovation.
Will be well packaged and protected
Specifications
ConditionExcellentColorsGreen, TransparentMaterialCrystalNumber of items1Height18 cmWidth8 cmDepth8 cm
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About this seller
Private sellerBruxelles, BelgiumOn Whoppah since April 2024 • 74 sales