Saint-Louis: A Crystal Legacy Honored by UNESCO
Text by Teerin Julsawad
Saint-Louis, the oldest crystal manufacturer in Europe, has long been a beacon of luxury and craftsmanship. Founded in the 16th century and granted its prestigious name by King Louis XV in 1767, Saint-Louis is renowned for its stunning chandeliers, lighting and elegant tableware that seamlessly blend traditional and modern styles. The brand’s dedication to quality, clarity and exquisite detail has made it a leader in the world of crystal and glassmaking.
On December 6, 2023, a significant milestone was achieved for the glassmaking profession as the Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage inscribed glassmaking techniques on UNESCO’s Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity. This recognition, while honoring the entire glassmaking community, is especially meaningful to Saint-Louis, a brand that has been at the forefront of preserving and advancing these artisanal traditions for centuries. For Saint-Louis and its artisans, this honor is a testament to their unwavering dedication to the craft.
This significant achievement is the culmination of efforts led by the French Ministry of Culture and supported by several other nations, including the Czech Republic, Finland, Germany, Hungary and Spain. The inscription highlights the collective effort involved in producing crystal objects, a process that can involve up to 20 skilled crafts. From creating the material to hot glass forming techniques like glassblowing, and finishing with intricate cutting and cold-working decoration, glassmaking is a miracle of dexterity and craftsmanship.
The brand has been at the forefront of promoting the beauty, diversity and creativity of French glassmaking. Their commitment to preserving and advancing these traditional techniques is evident in every piece they create. Saint-Louis congratulates its teams, who work tirelessly to uphold the excellence of their craft and ensure its survival for future generations.
In France alone, 4,000 men and women apply glassmaking techniques daily, fostering a sense of community among experienced craftspeople and apprentices. This shared knowledge drives ongoing technical innovation and creativity. The values of high standards and creativity are the cornerstones of the glassmaking and crystal-making industries, helping to showcase rare know-how in various fields, from tableware to the automotive industry.
Saint-Louis is also deeply committed to sustainability and environmental responsibility. As the industry faces the challenges of climate change, Saint-Louis and its peers are transforming their practices to make glassmaking more environmentally friendly. This includes using eco-friendly materials and processes that minimize waste and reduce their ecological footprint.
In celebration of this UNESCO recognition, Saint-Louis will host a public photo exhibition in September 2024, depicting glassmaking techniques on the railings of the Jardin du Luxembourg in Paris. This exhibition aims to inspire and educate the public about the artistry and history of glassmaking.
Adding to this celebration of craft, Saint-Louis presented two new collections at Salone del Mobile Milano. Ornamentalist Pierre Marie Agin revisited traditional “hand-cutting” techniques with the Chamade collection, showcasing the richness of this meticulous craft. Designer Stefania di Petrillo introduced the Torsade lighting collection, inspired by the timeless twisting technique, bringing a contemporary twist to classic chandelier arms.
The Chamade collection features three exceptional pieces inspired by flowers and music, highlighting the ornamental talent of its creator. The Torsade collection, meanwhile, transforms the chandelier arm into a leading design element, creating U-shaped and loop-shaped modular pieces that redefine elegance and functionality.
As Saint-Louis looks to the future, it remains dedicated to passing on its passion for glassmaking to younger generations. By fostering interest in these forward-looking professions, Saint-Louis ensures that the art of glassmaking will continue to thrive, honoring its heritage while embracing innovation.
This article appears in Summer 2024 issue of Chanintr Living Download full issue
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