René Lalique "Bammako" vase Date : c1934 Origin : Combs-la-Ville, France Colour : Opalescent Bowl : Slightly flared rim, seven tiers of refractive bubbles moulded on the outside of vase. The refractive effect is quite stunning, giving the bubbles an appearance reminiscent of berries. Stencilled "R Lalique France" mark to base. Glass Type : Lalique demi-cristal Size : 18.1cm height, 16.6cm diameter bowl, 7.4cm diameter foot Condition : Excellent, no chips or cracks - some wear to the base commensurate with age. Restoration : None Weight : 2200 grams.
Although Rene Lalique is celebrated as Frances premier jeweller working in the Art Nouveau style between about 1885 and 1905 it is far more difficult to describe him a Frances premier Art Deco glass designer and maker if only because his output was so diverse in style and application. However many of the designs post 1930 show a distinct change of approach that favour stronger geometric elements applied to often heavier forms. So enter this Bammako vase introduced in 1934 and featuring regular graduated bands of cabochons within narrow serrated surrounds. Its closest cousin being Mossi a similar vase introduced previously in 1933 but using a smaller near cylindrical form, whilst as can be seen the choice of a larger flared shape reflects a more dynamic appearance.
The use of opalescence amplifies the overall effect of Laliques acute understanding of the refractive qualities of the graduated cabochons. The base shows the signs of correct wear which partially obscures the stencilled mark R Lalique whilst the top rim is entirely clear but any suggestion of recent polishing is nullified by the fact that the vase measures the standard 18.5cm. As with all Lalique glass and especially opalescent display is all important with this vase offering its best appearance against a black background with a concentrated down light. I have been involved in the antiques business since 1971.
My career took a leap forward when I joined Bonhams in 1976. Some five years later I became head of the Decorative Arts department. The item "René Lalique Bammako Vase c1934 Marcilhac 1088" is in sale since Sunday, August 25, 2019. This item is in the category "Pottery, Porcelain & Glass\Glass\Art Glass\French\Lalique". The seller is "ericknowlestv" and is located in High Wycombe. This item can be shipped worldwide.