Lalique - Figurine - Bison - Crystal

In gehold crystal and satin-pressed design by René Lalique from 1931, produced under Marc Lalique (1950s-1960s)

Exceptional and rare sculpture in satin-pressed Lalique crystal, representing a majestic bison, primitive emblem of unbroken strength, fertility, and prosperity, and of peace.

This emblematic model, designed by the genius René Lalique on September 4, 1931 (ref. 1194 in Félix Marcilhacs catalog, listed in the 1932 price list and reissued in 1937), was reissued after 1945 in pure crystal under the inspired leadership of Marc Lalique, signaling the dawn of a new era.

Gross incarnation of the ancient aurochs, the animal with muscular and dynamic forms - head bowed, perforated horns, hooves anchored - evokes a sculptural vitality with a timeless Art Deco elegance, on a rectangular crystalline pedestal with clean lines.

Executed according to the masterful technique of pressed and molded crystal, perfected by Marc Lalique for sparkling transparency and superior luster (composition about 24% lead, injected under high pressure at more than 1,000 °C into hand-carved steel molds), this piece reveals a satin finish with a velvety softness, achieved by carefully hand-polishing after controlled cooling.

The quality is unmatched: absolute clarity without air bubbles or imperfections, where light breaks into soft nacre-like reflections, giving the bison an almost lifelike and textured presence with taut hide folds, pronounced muscles, a fluffed tail with fine atelier craftsmanship of world-class caliber. A masterpiece of the workshops in Wingen-sur-Moder, where three cold-working teams were needed for one warm-working technician, preserving René’s heritage in the post-war luxury crystal innovation.

Dimensions: Height 10 cm; Depth 12.5 cm; Width 5 cm.

Material: Satin-pressed crystal, partly polished finish for a unique optical depth
Signatures: Original paper label > on the base attached; and > engraved
Condition: Impeccable, no chips or cloudiness, crystal of exceptional purity and brilliance

Rare piece and discontinued since the 1990s; from a limited edition under Marc Lalique (period 1945-1977, with reissue of the model under No. 11-805 after 1951; fewer than 1,000 pieces in perfect condition).

A treasure for collectors of French crystal craftsmanship, adding an aura of power and prestige to a desk or an exceptional display cabinet.