July 15, 2025 2 min read
Where art doesn't just shine – it tells a story
Some people set trends. René Lalique? He built empires – first with gold, then with glass. A true original, born in the heart of Champagne, who turned the world of jewellery and crystal upside down… twice.
Born in 1860 in Aÿ-en-Champagne (yes, the home of real bubbly), René Lalique grew up surrounded by nature. Later came Paris, then London – but he always drew inspiration from the countryside. Flowers, insects, animals: these weren’t just decorative motifs for him, they were poetry in motion. And he didn’t need diamonds to make a piece shine.
At the turn of the century, when legendary actress Sarah Bernhardt needed a piece that whispered rather than shouted, she turned to Lalique. And so did half the aristocracy. His jewellery was delicate, dreamy, and bold all at once – a quiet revolution in a world obsessed with sparkle.
When Lalique met perfume mogul François Coty, magic happened. Why should a fragrance not live in a work of art? Lalique’s designs made perfume bottles collectible, desirable – and accessible. A moment in design history that changed the entire beauty industry.
From luxury train carriages to grand ocean liners, Lalique left his signature everywhere. He designed panels for the Côte d’Azur Express, chandeliers for the Normandie, even glass doors for Japanese royalty. Wherever Art Deco went, Lalique’s touch wasn’t far behind.
René Lalique passed away in 1945, but his name lived on. First through his family, then under the wing of Swiss-owned Lalique Group. In 2011, the brand opened the stunning Musée Lalique in Wingen-sur-Moder – with more than 600 pieces on display. That same year, the Lalique Maison collection was launched, bringing Art Deco elegance into modern homes with crystal-inspired furniture and décor.
Edith Piaf, Salvador Dalí, Elton John, Queen Elizabeth II – they all owned Lalique. And now, thanks to Sidonies, this iconic beauty is once again within reach. From glassware to gifts, statement vases to stylish décor – Lalique reminds us that true luxury doesn’t shout. It glows.
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