Val Saint Lambert - Table service (15) - RINCE-BOUCHE + Plates - Crystal - 1908

Crystal Tableware Serving Set, 15 Pieces

Val Saint Lambert, early 20th century

An exquisite crystal serving set comprising 15 hand-crafted pieces, distinguished by its purity of form and timeless elegance.

The set includes:

• 5 crystal bowls with matching saucers (13 cm), officially listed in the Val Saint Lambert catalogue as rince-bouche. Traditionally, rince-bouche pieces were used at the table for rinsing the mouth between courses, a refined dining custom of the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, these elegant forms lend themselves beautifully to modern serving—ideal for small starters, desserts, condiments, or tasting portions.

• 5 deeper serving plates (15 cm), perfectly suited for appetizers, side dishes, or refined table presentations.

Crafted in fine hand-cut crystal, the design is deliberately laconic and balanced, allowing light, proportions, and clarity to take center stage. This restrained aesthetic makes the set remarkably versatile, complementing both classic and contemporary table settings with equal ease.

The larger plates bear the engraved Val Saint Lambert manufactory mark, while the presence of rince-bouche forms is documented in the official Val Saint Lambert catalogue of 1908, serving as strong confirmation of authenticity and historical provenance.

A rare and sophisticated ensemble that reflects the understated luxury and exceptional craftsmanship for which Val Saint Lambert is renowned.

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