Beschreibung:

designed 1938 clear, frosted with a hint of grey staining, engraved with 3 birds on the front and 10 birds to the reverse, the rigging also engraved, nickel-plated illuminating mount wheel-engraved R. LALIQUE (2) 47.7cm (18 3/4in) high, 72.3cm (28 1/2in) long, 14.5cm (5 3/4in) deep overall Literature: Marcilhac, F., René Lalique 1860-1945 Mâitre-verrier, Analyse et Catalogue Raisonné de L'Œuvre de Verre, Paris, 2011, p. 151 (variant example gifted to King George VI and Queen Elizabeth photographed). Note: Surtout de tables or ornamental centrepieces were an essential part of formal dining from the second half of the 18th Century and throughout the 19th Century. The design with the seagulls was created for the visit of King George VI and Queen Elizabeth to Paris in 1938 and was part of a large dinner service also featuring seagulls. The Caravelle centrepiece had been designed in 1931 but the seagulls were added for the gift. The galleon is an emblem on the coat of arms of Paris. The Royal visit was intended to take place on 29 June but the Queen's mother died so it was postponed until July. Only two other examples are known to exist - a version held in the Musée Lalique Collection and one in the Royal Collection, UK. IMPORTANT INFO FOR ‡ LOTS Lots affixed with ‡ or [Ω] symbols may be subject to further regulations upon export /import, please see Conditions of Sale for Buyers Section D.2. Collections of Purchased ‡ Lots: For items marked with the ‡ (denoting additional VAT payable at a reduced rate of 5% on the hammer price) additional time should be allowed for Customs clearance by HMRC if the item is to remain in the UK. For items being exported out of the UK these items can be shipped via Crown Fine Art or via another approved shipper with a temporary admissions account.