Val Saint Lambert - Drinking service (7) - Service THÉODORA - Crystal - 1900s

Val Saint Lambert “Service Théodora” Crystal Decanter & Six Glasses – Belgium, Catalogue 1904–1905

An elegant antique crystal service by Val Saint Lambert, Belgium, comprising an original decanter and six matching glasses, documented in the official 1904–1905 catalogue as part of the distinguished Service Théodora.

Entirely hand-cut and hand-finished, the service displays the refined oval-cut decoration characteristic of the model. The brilliance of the crystal and the precision of the cutting create a beautiful play of light, reflecting the exceptional quality of Val Saint Lambert’s Belle Époque production.

The decanter has a capacity of approximately 750 ml and retains its original stopper. Together with the six matching glasses, it forms a harmonious set for serving port, sherry, madeira, liqueur wines, or other fortified beverages.

The service remains in very good condition. No chips or cracks were observed on either the glasses or the decanter, and the original stopper is intact. The only notable sign of age is a slight internal cloudiness visible on the base of the decanter under certain lighting conditions. As shown in the photographs, this becomes virtually invisible when the decanter contains liquid.

A beautiful and increasingly scarce complete Belle Époque crystal service, combining documented catalogue provenance, exceptional craftsmanship, and timeless elegance.

As with all entirely handmade crystal of this period, slight variations and tiny manufacturing irregularities may be present, adding to the authenticity and charm of the set.

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