Antique Hand-Cut Demi-Crystal Champagne Coupes – Val Saint Lambert (Herbatte), Service Olivier, late 19th century 150 ml An elegant set of antique hand-cut demi-cristal (also known as cristaline or lead-free crystal) champagne coupes produced at the Herbatte glassworks, which operated under the direction of Val Saint Lambert from the second half of the 19th century. The glasses belong to the iconic Service Olivier, a model introduced in the late 19th century and produced well into the early 20th century. The present examples date specifically to the end of the 19th century. Entirely handmade, each coupe features the characteristic air bubble sealed within the stem, a distinctive hallmark of the Olivier service and of traditional glassblowing techniques used at Herbatte. The finely shaped stem is complemented by a bowl decorated with deep, hand-cut oval facets, which beautifully refract light and create a subtle, shimmering effect. With a capacity of approximately 150 ml, these coupes are ideal for champagne, sparkling wine, or classic cocktails. Well-preserved examples from this early period, especially in demi-cristal, are increasingly rare, making this set a refined and highly collectible addition to any antique crystal collection. Antique crystal glasses from the late 19th 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