Cristal Saint Louis ‘Versailles’ Ruby Overlay Cut Crystal Vase, France, C.1990

A striking 20 cm ‘Versailles’ vase by Cristal Saint-Louis, combining brilliantly cut clear crystal with a rich ruby-claret overlay.

One of Saint-Louis’s most recognisable classical forms, the Versailles vase is distinguished by its dramatic flared coloured rim, deeply cut through the ruby overlay to create a rhythmic series of clear crystal scallops. The effect is particularly effective in changing light, where the saturated claret-red colour contrasts with the brilliance and transparency of the cut crystal beneath.

The body is finely worked with vertical facets and a broad band of diamond cutting, tapering to a short stem and substantial square foot. Despite its relatively compact scale, the exaggerated proportions of the flared rim give the vase considerable presence and an almost architectural silhouette.

This example dates from the c.1990s and retains its original black-and-gold ‘CRISTAL SAINT LOUIS FRANCE’ paper label, as well as the usual acid-etched Saint Louis mark to the centre of the base.

The deep ruby-claret colour lends the vase a warm, subtly festive quality, particularly beautiful in winter interiors, while remaining elegant and distinctive throughout the year.

A particularly attractive example of late-20th-century French luxury crystal: equally effective filled with flowers or displayed alone as a sculptural decorative object.