There’s always a bit of excitement when an invitation arrives from Lalique.
And when we were asked to attend the Manhattan preview of the latest collection, we knew we were in for another visual treat and, of course, said yes.
After all, it’s reassuring to know that a company with such a grand tradition of luxury and craftsmanship continues to both look ever forward — and thrive while doing so.
And its trademark artistry, a tribute to the enduring legacy of founder René Lalique (1860-1945), was on dazzling display at every turn during a recent morning press event held in the elegant Lalique Interiors Showroom on Fifth Avenue.
The Fall/Winter 2016 Crystal Collection, Muses, did not disappoint. In homage to “the Woman,” an enduring inspiration to master artist Lalique himself, the collection is filled with new interpretations (sizes, colors, shapes and uses) of the classic pieces. These include the satin-finished Bacchantes vase — in production since 1927 — and the delicate Naïades pattern, realized in several selections.
I was charmed by the Naïades tray and clock, delicate works that made me think of Art Deco vanities and the era of cocktails before dinner.
The Aphrodite carafe 2017 is another wonder of sleek style, and, while the Bacchantes vase in deep green was captivating, it simply paled in comparison to the room’s showstopper – the Limited Edition Bacchantes Grand Vase. One of just 88 in the world and glistening with gold leaf, the piece ($36,000) was simply breathtaking.
The preview also highlighted bowls, Champagne coolers, perfume bottles, art-glass panels and sculptures. Also showcased were examples of Géo, the results of a collaboration with architect Mario Botta and part of the ongoing Crystal Architecture collection. It was in discussing these that I had the chance to catch up with the always-gracious and warm Maz Zouhairi, president and CEO of Lalique North America. (I got to live vicariously for a moment, mentioning that we recently ran a photo that included him at the Elton John Oscar party, the culmination of a Lalique collaboration with the famed musician.)
Though it was just a short visit, it was filled with a wealth of beauty that made an otherwise chilly, rainy morning something special.
New selections are due in late summer at sources led by the Lalique New York boutique.
For more, visit lalique.com. – Mary Shustack
