Les Cristalleries Saint-Louis [Hardcover]

In 1767, King Louis XV of France conferred the title of Royal glassworks of Saint-Louis on the Müntzthal glass workshop in Lorraine, already in operation for 200 years. Fifteen years later, the workshop's crystal glass formula was perfected, and the site was renamed the Royal crystal-works of Saint-Louis. Since 1829, the workshop has devoted itself solely to the production of crystal, and Saint-Louis crystal products--dinner services in the signature Trianon pattern and luminous decorative pieces, chandeliers and lamps, exquisitely hand-decorated in 24-carat gold or platinum--have become synonymous with a certain tradition of luxury and refinement. Les Cristalleries Saint-Louischarts the history of 19th- and 20th-century design and craftsmanship as expressed in Saint-Louis luxury crystal products, and explores how partnerships with contemporary designers have brought the brand, representing France's oldest glass manufacturer, into the 21st century.