Val Saint Lambert - René Delvenne - Vase - VATEL - Crystal - Signed

Val Saint Lambert “VATEL” Vase by René Delvenne, 1950s

A sculptural example of post-war Belgian art glass, this VATEL model vase was designed by René Delvenne for Val Saint Lambert in the 1950s. Hand-blown in two-tone crystal, it combines clear glass with deep cobalt-blue accents that flow organically through the form.

The design is characterized by smooth, twisting contours and a softly undulating rim, emphasizing movement and fluidity rather than cut decoration. The layered crystal creates subtle optical effects, with light and color shifting beautifully depending on the angle of view.

Entirely hand-crafted, the vase bears the engraved Val Saint Lambert signature on the base, confirming its originality. An elegant and expressive mid-century design, representative of Delvenne’s refined approach and Val Saint Lambert’s mastery of art crystal.

This piece shares its silhouette and stylistic features with a group of vases documented in the authoritative publication Val Saint Lambert: Art & Design 1880–1990 by Michèle Thiry. Those vases, designed by René Delvenne, belong to the same design family and were presented at Expo 58 in Brussels. While this exact model is not pictured, its close formal relationship and identical sculptural language confirm that it originates from the same creative context and can be confidently attributed to Delvenne.

A striking collector’s piece that embodies the innovation, elegance, and craftsmanship of Val Saint Lambert’s mid-century design language — equally at home in contemporary or vintage interiors.

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.

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