A line graced by perfection, a transparency inspired by the divine… The Harcourt glass incarnates the pride and joy of luxurious craftsmanship, and the perfection of an iconic cup. Created in 1841 in France under the reign of King Louis-Philippe, this “three-button gondola shape” didn’t have a name. It wasn’t until 1925 during the International Exposition of Decorative and Industrial Arts that this Baccarat glass was finally given a name, in homage to Pauline d’Harcourt. Belonging to one of the oldest Norman aristocratic families, this woman first gave them their pedigree by inviting them to her wedding service in 1843.
This little marvel, with its pure yet powerful silhouette, had fascinated Madame d’Harcourt from the moment she saw it. A hexagonal foot with perfect geometry, a finely-chiseled three-button leg, cut down to flat dimensions: this crystalline sculpture has and still continues to shape light, reflecting a staggering art. This charming success has endured through time and space. From John Paul II to the Shah of Iran in passing by the Presidents of France, the Harcourt glass is the ambassador of French taste, as well as an icon of crystal ware and prestigious craftsmanship.
In 1974, it took on a more curious allure, dressing itself up in pink, cobalt blue, emerald, and amethyst. In 2002, Baccarat invited contemporary designers like Tsé-Tsé, Vincent Dupont-Rougier, or Inga Sempé to create new interpretations of this mythical object. Then the collaboration with Phillipe Starck in 2005 gave birth to Harcourt’s black swan, modeled in the darkest of black crystal. So many encounters, all of which have left their mark on the epic of this chalice named desire, somewhere between classic extravagance and audacious tradition.
Leave a Reply