The design style known as Louis XVI dates to the reign of King Louis XVI of France (1774-1792). The style appeared in architecture, furniture, decoration and art and rejected the elaborate ornate curves and frilly embellishments of the preceding Baroque period.  Louis XVI’s queen, Marie Antoinette, was instrumental in returning design focus to a style characterized by the elegance and of ancient Greek and Roman models, employing the use of ornate detail, precise shapes, light and refined color palettes, and symmetry.  The royal apartments in the palaces of Versailles, Fontainebleau, Tuileries, as well as other royal residences contain outstanding examples of these beautiful designs.   No expense was spared to create elegant, refined and expertly crafted wares produced by the master craftsmen of the period in this period just prior to the French Revolution. 

 

Baccarat French crystal has been known for its exceptional quality and expert design since the glassworks was founded in 1764 by royal permission of King Louis XV about 150 miles from Paris. It is one of the oldest luxury glass companies in France.

 

Since the beginning, Baccarat crystal has been hand-blown and cut. It is one-third lead based, which allows for the beautiful sparkle and characteristic “ping” sound of fine crystal. In the early 19th century, a lead crystal manufacturer acquired Baccarat, and they were the ones to discover that the addition of nickel oxide during production resulted in a clear, colorless glass that resembled rock crystal.  Looking closely at this old Baccarat crystal will show a slightly grey color.  In the 19th century, the royal families in Paris and other European capitals were impressed by the extreme intricacies and elegance of design, and commissioned Baccarat pieces for their palaces and state residences. The company was awarded many prizes at international exhibitions held in Europe during this period.

 

Baccarat pieces are signed, with marks and methods varying over the years. The hundreds of amazing styles and forms of crystal used on fine antique chandeliers, sconces and candelabra make the Baccarat name a standout in the history of French antiques.

 

Bronze d'oré, also known as ormolu or gilt bronze, was a decorative finish used on luxury furnishings in the 18th and 19th centuries. An application of finely ground high carat gold and mercury amalgam was placed on objects of bronze. When subjected to extremely high heat, the mercury evaporated, leaving behind a lustrous coating of gold.