The Saint-Louis crystal brand from France, renowned for its century-old craftsmanship, is now showcasing its artistry in a global exhibition.
This event highlights the brand’s intricate mini portable lamps and elegant tea sets, offering a rare glimpse into the world of luxury crystal.
Discovering Saint-Louis: A Journey Through Craftsmanship
Admiring beautiful objects is natural, but some items, like luxurious crystal, often seem out of reach. Initially, I shared this sentiment, but visiting the Saint-Louis “Une Histoire de Savoir-Faire” exhibition changed my perspective.
The exhibit, though compact, encapsulates the essence of Saint-Louis’ crystal craftsmanship, offering an immersive experience into the historic crystal workshop.
The Cold Workshop
You’d be surprised to learn that a single crystal glass named “Tommy” undergoes five different cutting processes!
This glass, originally commissioned for a royal banquet to honor soldiers, took years for artisans to complete.
At the exhibition, you can handle these glasses, observing the various cutting techniques and appreciating the meticulous craftsmanship involved.
The Hot Workshop
This section displays tools used in crystal production, brought directly from the French workshop.
Through these tools and accompanying demonstration videos, visitors can understand the hand-blowing process of crystal items.
Depending on the complexity, multiple artisans work together to create each piece. For instance, a single crystal piece can require anywhere from two to twenty craftsmen working simultaneously.
24K Gold Hand Decoration
Ever wondered how the beautiful patterns on 24K gold crystal items are made?
This section reveals the intricate process through a series of glasses, showcasing the detailed and labor-intensive work.
Despite their delicate appearance, Saint-Louis assures that their craftsmanship ensures longevity with normal use.
Live Demonstrations by Artisans
In one area, skilled artisans demonstrate crystal cutting techniques, showing the precision and expertise required.
Visitors can even try their hand at the process, gaining a deeper appreciation for the artisans’ skill and the complexity of the craft.
New Releases at the Boutique
After the exhibition, don’t miss the chance to visit the Saint-Louis boutique to explore their latest collections.
Folia Mini Portable Lamp
A highlight of the new collection, the Folia Mini portable lamp, designed by renowned French designer Noé Duchaufour-Lawrance, features a simple yet elegant design that embodies Saint-Louis’ rich heritage.
The lamp’s lightweight design allows you to easily move it around, casting beautiful, soft light wherever you place it. Priced at $1,250, it’s a worthy investment for those new to crystal art.
Apollo Tea Set Collection
Saint-Louis has expanded its offerings to include a new tea set collection, created in collaboration with tea expert Lydia Gautier.
Combining crystal and porcelain, these sets cater to both Western and Eastern tea traditions. Even if you’re a coffee lover, there are options available. The collection ranges from $250 to $1,000, making it accessible for those looking to add a touch of luxury to their daily routine.
Exhibition Details
Saint-Louis “Une Histoire de Savoir-Faire”
- Dates: March 24-25
- Time: 11:30 AM – 9:30 PM
- Location: BELLAVITA, Hermes Maison des Arts & Saint-Louis Boutique, 1F, No. 28, Songren Road, Taipei City
Must-Have Pieces from Saint-Louis
Item | Description | Price | Link |
---|---|---|---|
Folia Mini Portable Lamp | Elegant, lightweight lamp with three brightness settings. | $1,250 | Buy Now |
Apollo Tea Set Collection | A blend of crystal and porcelain for a luxurious tea experience. | $250-$1,000 | Buy Now |