Orchids of Lorraine
15 July, 2003 - 14 September, 2003

The exhibition is devoted to one of the most interesting periods in the history of the European art glass of the late XIX - early XX century. The works produced by the company of Emile Gallet and the Daums Brothers introduce the viewer into the atmosphere of the refined moderne style. The vases made of multi-layer glass with relief flowers used to decorate in the beginning of our century nearly every home which was striving to look stylish and modern. Many of the samples displayed come from the apartments of Nicholas II and Empress Alexandra Fyodorovna.

The State Hermitage possesses a unique collection of works by the famous masters Emile Gallet and August and Antonine Daum, the founders of the leading artistic-industrial companies at Nancy, centre of Lorraine, at the end of the XIX century. The famous works by Emile Gallet combine the brilliant skill in processing the multi-layer glass and exquisite forms and decorations in moderne style. One of the favorite motives in Gallet’s works is an orchid.

Vase Decorated with Butterflies and Dragonflies
1889
Emile Galle
Larger view

Vase Decorated with Begonias
1900
Workshop of Emile Galle
Larger view

Vase with the Symbols of Night
1900
Workshop of Emile Galle
Larger view