Lalique - Paperweight - ''Taureau'' - Crystal

LALIQUE FRANCE – Sculpture “Bull”

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

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

This emblematic model, conceived by the genius René Lalique on September 4, 1931 (ref. 1194 in Félix Marcilhac’s 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 “Cristal Lalique.”

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

Realized 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-chiseled steel molds), this piece reveals a satin finish of velvety smoothness, achieved by precise manual polishing after controlled cooling.

The quality is unmatched: absolute clarity with no bubbles or imperfections, where light diffracts into subtle pearlescent reflections, giving the bull an almost lifelike and textured presence – taut skin folds, prominent muscles, tail whipped and finely chiseled with supreme artisanal finesse. A feat of the Wingen-sur-Moder workshops, where three cold-finishing craftsmen were required for one hot-finisher, preserving René’s heritage in post-war luxury glass innovation.

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

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

Images are part of the description. Shipment insured and at a pickup point."