Baccarat is a French company with an international reputation. It is the embodiment of French art of living and French refinement. The company specializes in crystal work. In this article, you’ll discover its history and know-how, which have become a rare gem.
The origins of an exceptional company
The company was founded in 1764 at the request of King Louis XV in Baccarat, Meurthe-et-Moselle. Originally, the company was to help create stained-glass windows, mirrors and glass services for the town. Then, in 1785, the glassworks became one of the largest in Europe. After years of difficulty, it finally received its first royal commission in 1823 from King Louis XVIII. As a result of this first order, the company enjoyed unimaginable success with heads of state and royalty from around the world. In 1855, it was privileged to participate for the first time in the Paris Universal Exhibition, where it was awarded the Grand Medal of Honor. A few years later, the brand was registered and diversified its creations to include perfume bottles, vases and candlesticks. By the 1900s, the company had become one of the largest in France, with its employees being local villagers. Finally, for the 200th anniversary of its creation, Baccarat decided to celebrate their anniversary at The Louvre Museum. Today, the company boasts the prestigious title of Royal Manufactory, and is active in several sectors, including a new one, jewelry.
World-renowned expertise
At Baccarat, each creation is the result of ancestral know-how handed down from generation to generation. These pieces are made of crystal, a mixture of sand and lead. Unlike glass, crystal is purer and more transparent. Easily sublimated, this material reflects excellence. In the workshops of the Lorraine-based company, several craftsmen are housed right next door. These include craftsmen, master glassblowers, cutters and engravers. Among them are 17 of France’s finest craftsmen. They demonstrate perfect mastery of their craft. It takes around five years to acquire a perfectly mastered gesture. The result is pieces of unrivalled finesse. This exceptional craftsmanship, combining tradition and exacting standards, has earned Baccarat the prestigious label of Living Heritage Company. This title is awarded to French houses that embody the excellence of their craft. But how is a Baccarat creation made? First of all, you need to know that in the workshops, the furnaces are never turned off. The crystal is then heated in the furnaces to over 1400°. The craftsman then heats it and shapes it by blowing it into a mold. This is not an easy job, since it requires very precise gestures and speed, as the crystal cools from 1000° to 500° in less than a minute. Crystal is considered a living material, which is why craftsmen give it the shape they want. Once this stage is complete, the piece moves on to the cutting workshop, where it is decorated and sculpted. These craftsmen work with water to avoid heating the crystal and breaking it. Just to give you an idea: for the glass of Tsar Nicholas II, it takes around 10 hours of cutting and 20 grinding wheels. Each piece is a substantial and meticulous job.
The most emblematic creations
For over 2 centuries, Baccarat has created objects that have become true symbols of luxury and excellence. Among its most emblematic pieces are the famous Harcourt glasses. Since 1841, they have graced the tables of the French bourgeoisie. This is illustrated in a painting by Gustave Caillebotte in 1876. It shows the painter in the middle of a family lunch. The work bears witness to the long tradition of crystal tableware. Baccarat’s emblematic creations include majestic crystal chandeliers that light up the most prestigious palaces and hotels. Last but not least, there are also wonderful bottles for refined perfumes, sometimes produced in very limited editions.
In addition to its iconic creations, Baccarat renews itself through collaborations with big names in design and fashion. Contemporary designers such as Philippe Starck, Marcel Wanders and Virgil Abloh have revisited the world of Baccarat. They have breathed new life and modernity into the brand without ever betraying its artisanal heritage.
Baccarat also creates bespoke pieces for exclusive clients such as heads of state, royal families, luxury houses and private collectors. Each creation becomes a work of art, reflecting unique knowledge and French prestige. What’s more, every president is entitled to order a complete glassware service when elected.
Baccarat today
After more than 260 years, Baccarat continues to shine internationally. Baccarat’s crystal work continues to dazzle the world. Today, Baccarat remains the leader in this highly refined and authentic sector. It succeeds in seducing a demanding clientele in search of exceptional pieces. Today, Baccarat is present in over 30 countries, with boutiques in Paris, New York, Tokyo and Hong Kong. You can also find Baccarat pieces in prestigious hotels and palaces. This symbol of French art of living is now recognized as a luxury service.
Nevertheless, the company manages to renew itself while preserving its traditions. It explores new designs, invests in social networks and offers a new collection. These are designed for new generations of customers. The company has succeeded in bridging the gap between heritage and innovation, which is quite a challenge for a material as noble as crystal.
I’d now like to give you a few tips on how to obtain a Baccarat glassware service. To obtain a crystal set, you can first buy a glass that you can either add to later or use daily with care. It’s always nicer to eat or drink in exceptional pieces like this. With a touch of quality, it makes life more beautiful.
