Baccarat - Bottle - Crystal - Michelangelo

Baccarat – Rare bottle/decanter model “Michelangelo” – Acid-engraved crystal – France, circa 1928-1935

Splendid and elegant bottle with a crystal stopper attributed to the famous Baccarat manufactory, model “Michelangelo,” one of the refined decorative creations by the French maison produced between the late 1920s and the 1930s of the 20th century.

The Michelangelo model is documented in the Baccarat catalog of 1933 and is characterized by a very rich array of Renaissance-inspired ornamentation, from which the name chosen by the manufactory derives.

The bottle features an elegant flattened and slightly oval body, set on a circular foot and topped by an architecturally articulated neck. The composition is completed by the substantial original crystal stopper, also finely decorated and perfectly coherent with the overall design.

What makes this specimen particularly fascinating is the extraordinary richness of the acid-engraved decoration: a dense symmetrical interweaving of arabesques, volutes, vegetal tendrils, small flowers, ribbons and grotesque motifs spans almost the entire surface of the body.

At the center of the composition stand elegant vase and floral basket elements, inserted within a complex ornamental network that recalls Renaissance decorative repertoire. The design continues onto the neck through geometric and floral bands and is even echoed on the large stopper, creating a remarkable visual continuity.

The alternation between the transparency and brightness of the crystal and the satin finish of the engraving gives the bottle extraordinary depth: viewed from different angles, the decorations on the two sides visually overlap, creating a fascinating almost three-dimensional effect.

An object of great elegance and strong decorative presence, representative of the very high level reached by French crystal work in the first half of the 20th century and particularly interesting for collectors of Baccarat, French crystal and 20th-century decorative arts.

Dimensions: approximately 27 × 15 × 9 cm.

The piece is presented in generally good condition, consistent with its age. Normal light signs of time and use are visible in the photographs. Please carefully examine the extensive photo set, which constitutes an integral part of the description.

Interior design tips

Thanks to the crystal’s transparency and the almost ‘lace-like’ refinement of the engravings, this bottle has an exceptional decorative presence. It can be enhanced on a dark wood console, on an antique or Deco-era piece, inside a glass display cabinet with lighting, or on a marble surface where light can pass through the crystal and highlight the intricacy of the arabesques.

Also particularly interesting placed in a contemporary or minimalist interior: isolated as a single important object atop a console or small table, it creates a refined contrast between the rigor of a modern setting and the richness of historical decoration.

Ankerior specializes in packaging and handling of artworks and valuable objects, with specialized training at Palazzo Spinelli, Florence.