MEET THE MAKER -Baccarat; 250 years and still growing strong

The story of Baccarat, the maker of the world’s finest crystal wares, began in 1764, when King Louis XV gave a loan to the Bishop of Montmorency-Laval of Metz to open a glassworks facility in the town of Baccarat, France. Although it would later be renowned for its fine crystal, the company’s first products were mainly bottles, mirrors, and window panels. The onset of the French Revolution in 1789 dealt a big blow, the first of a series of economic struggles Baccarat would face in the next few decades. Economic instability was common in France at this time, and worsened as the country collapsed into civil war. France’s economic situation continued to be dire with the Napoleonic Wars that swept across Europe during the early 19th century.

By 1816, inflation caused Baccarat to operate at a loss, and the factory was sold to Monsieur d’Artigues, a Belgian expert in glass production. Monsieur d’Artigues was an ambitious man who set his sights on making Baccarat one of the world’s most prestigious names in glass production. During the early 1830s, the company expanded its market beyond the borders of France. Palaces as far away as Constantinople placed orders for Baccarat crystal lighting fixtures, candelabras, banisters, and even crystal hookahs! In 1838, a manager at Baccarat discovered a method for producing full-lead crystal that could be colored. The formula became one of the company’s most closely guarded trade secrets.The popularity of Baccarat items continued to grow worldwide, and by the end of the 19th century, Baccarat had earned the reputation of being the “Crystal of Kings.” Baccarat crystal graced the tables of King Louis XVIII, King Charles X, Louis-Philippe, Emperor Napoleon III, and many of the French presidents.

The year 2013 saw the release of "BACCARAT 1764: Two Hundred and Fifty Years", a hefty volume which celebrates the legacy and enduring craftsmanship of Baccarat. This large illustrated book catalogues the crystal and glassware created for maharajahs and emperors around the world, including glassware with monograms and personal insignias commissioned by Aristotle and Jackie Onassis, and by Prince Rainier III for his wedding to Grace Kelly.

At Patine we are happy to have our very own hard copy available for your browsing pleasure and what's more, also a few lovely Baccarat pieces as seen bellow. Please feel free to contact us for further information.

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