Antique Hand-Cut Crystal Glasses – Val Saint Lambert, Service Olivier, ca. 1904–1905 200 ml An exceptional set of antique crystal glasses by the renowned Belgian crystalworks Val Saint Lambert, from the elegant Service Olivier collection, featured in the official 1904–1905 catalogue. Entirely handmade and hand-cut, these glasses reflect the highest standards of craftsmanship from the Belle Époque—an era known for its dedication to fine detail and luxurious form. A distinctive feature of this model is the air bubble sealed within the stem, the result of masterful glassblowing. The outer surface of the stem is finely hand-carved, adding texture and dimension. The bowl is adorned with deep, hand-cut oval facets, which capture and refract light in a stunning way. Hand-cut crystal is especially prized for its interaction with light, and these glasses truly come to life when lit by candlelight—their surfaces sparkle with a dynamic play of reflections, creating a “dancing light” effect that enhances any table setting. Standing at 15 cm tall and with a capacity of approximately 200 ml, these glasses are perfect for wine or water. Their larger size is rare among antique crystalware, as such pieces were more vulnerable to damage and less frequently preserved intact. This rarity makes the set even more desirable to collectors and lovers of timeless tableware. Antique crystal glasses from the early 20th century are handmade, so small differences in weight, stem thickness, or wall thickness and small imperfections are normal for that period. 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, protected and insured