Val Saint Lambert – Set of Six Antique Crystal Port Wine Glasses, “Prince de Galles”, Designed in 1862, Belgium No reserve price An exceptional set of six antique crystal port wine glasses produced by the prestigious Belgian glassworks Val Saint Lambert, belonging to the historic “Prince de Galles” service, a remarkable example of 19th-century Belgian crystal craftsmanship. The model was originally created in 1862, as confirmed by the Musée du Verre at the Grand Curtius Museum in Liège, Belgium, where an identical example is displayed in the permanent collection. The design is also documented in the original 1879 Val Saint Lambert catalogue, confirming its historical authenticity (see reference images). Each glass features an elegant rounded bowl decorated with two rows of deeply cut oval lenses, known as “olive cuts”, beautifully capturing and refracting light. The elaborately faceted stem, distinguished by two sculptural diamond-shaped elements, rests on a precisely cut hexagonal foot, creating an almost jewel-like appearance. Entirely handcrafted from high-quality crystal, these glasses demonstrate remarkable technical precision and exceptional craftsmanship. Such intricate cutting was particularly challenging in the mid-19th century, making this design an impressive achievement of its time. Condition: Exceptionally well preserved, with no chips or damage. Minor variations between individual glasses are natural characteristics of handcrafted antique crystal. A rare and highly collectible set, combining historical significance with timeless elegance. Equally suitable for display or practical use, these glasses are ideal for serving port wine, fortified wines, dessert wines or after-dinner digestifs. A beautiful example of Belgian crystal artistry, representing a design with more than 160 years of history. 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