Lalique - Paperweight - ''Taureau'' - Crystal

LALIQUE FRANCE – Sculpture “Taureau”

In molded and pressed satin crystal, designed by René Lalique in 1931, produced under Marc Lalique (1950s-1960s)

Exceptional and rare sculpture in satin molded and pressed Lalique crystal, depicting a charging bull, primal symbol of untamed strength, fertility and unwavering prosperity.

This emblematic model, conceived by the genius René Lalique on September 4, 1931 (ref. 1194 in the Félix Marcilhac catalogue raisonné, listed at the 1932 price list and reissued in 1937), was resumed in pure crystal after 1945 under the enlightened direction of Marc Lalique, marking the inaugural era of the “Lalique Crystal.”

Raw incarnation of the ancient aurochs, the animal with muscular and dynamic forms – head lowered, tapering horns, hooves anchored – evokes a sculptural vitality of timeless Art Deco elegance, on a rectangular crystalline base with clean lines.

Created using the masterful technique of molded and pressed crystal, perfected by Marc Lalique for radiant transparency and superior brilliance (composition about 24% lead, injected under high pressure at over 1,000 °C into hand-carved steel molds), this piece reveals a satin finish of velvety softness, achieved by precise hand polishing after controlled cooling.

The quality is unrivaled: absolute clarity without bubbles or imperfections, where light diffracts into subtle nacreous reflections, giving the bull an almost living and textured presence – taut skin folds, pronounced muscles, waved tail finely carved with supreme artisanal finesse. A feat of the Wingen-sur-Moder workshops, where three cold finisseurs were required for one hot worker, preserving René’s heritage in post-war luxury crystal innovation.

Dimensions: Height 10 cm; Length 12 cm; Width 5 cm
Material: Satin molded and pressed crystal, partially frosted finish for unique optical depth
Signatures: Original paper label “Cristal Lalique Paris and Made in France” glued to the base; and “Lalique France” engraved
Condition: Impeccable, with no chipping or opacification, crystal of exceptional purity and brilliance

Rare piece and discontinued since the 1990s, originating from a limited edition under Marc Lalique (1945–1977 period, with model reissued under no. 11-805 after 1951; fewer than 1,000 surviving in perfect condition).
A treasure for collectors of French crystal, imparting an aura of power and prestige to an executive desk or an exceptional showcase.

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