This nef is believed to have been created by Saint Louis Crystal for the 1889 Paris Exhibiton
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The nef was created by the oldest crystal firm in Europe, Saint Louis Crystal
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A doré bronze wind-swept flag atop the mast reads "Le St. Louis"
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This etched crystal vase is suspended from the mast
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A crystal bell delicately hangs from the vessel's stern
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This nef is believed to have been created by Saint Louis Crystal for the 1889 Paris Exhibiton
The nef was created by the oldest crystal firm in Europe, Saint Louis Crystal
A doré bronze wind-swept flag atop the mast reads "Le St. Louis"
This etched crystal vase is suspended from the mast
A crystal bell delicately hangs from the vessel's stern
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Saint Louis French Crystal Nef Centerpiece

  • A stunning exhibition-quality nef by the oldest crystal firm in Europe, Saint Louis Crystal
  • It is believed that this nef was displayed at the 1889 Paris Exposition Universelle
  • The entire vessel is crafted of exquisite doré bronze and crystal
  • Objets d'art associated with the great International Exhibitions are immense rarities on the market
  • Get complete item description here
$28,500
Item No. 30-4852

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Description
Crafted by the oldest and most respected crystal manufacturer in Europe, and believed to have been exhibited at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris, this incredible nef by Saint Louis Crystal is as exquisite as it is unique. The framework of the vessel is hand-wrought in exquisite doré bronze boasting chased details along the hull that resemble wood grain. Sumptuously etched Greek motifs surround the crystal bowl which serves as the body of the ship,. . .
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Crafted by the oldest and most respected crystal manufacturer in Europe, and believed to have been exhibited at the 1889 Exposition Universelle in Paris, this incredible nef by Saint Louis Crystal is as exquisite as it is unique. The framework of the vessel is hand-wrought in exquisite doré bronze boasting chased details along the hull that resemble wood grain. Sumptuously etched Greek motifs surround the crystal bowl which serves as the body of the ship, while the mast suspends an etched crystal globe and a wind-swept doré bronze flag engraved "Le St. Louis." Its gilt bronze movable rudder, oars and riggings are faithfully rendered, and the crystal bell suspended from the stern adds an elegant touch to this fantastic objet d'art. The great International Exhibitions of the 19th century showcased the best of the best in the multifarious arenas of art and science from countries around the world. To find objects that embody the epitome of superior craftsmanship associated with these global events is an amazing rarity. 

Circa 1887

23" wide x 11" deep x 28" high
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This nef is believed to have been created by Saint Louis Crystal for the 1889 Paris Exhibiton
Period: 20th Century
Origin: France
Type: Figurines/Statuettes
Style: Crystal
Depth: 11.0 in. (27.94 cm)
Width: 23.0 in. (58.42 cm)
Height: 28.0 in. (71.12 cm)
Buy with Confidence

At M.S. Rau, we are committed to building a long-term, rewarding relationship with each and every client. That’s why your purchase is backed by our 125% guarantee.

Learn More

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

The M.S. Rau Difference

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M.S. Rau is committed to offering fine art of the highest caliber and we seek paintings and sculpture by historically renowned artists, often with impressive provenance. The large majority of our works of art come from private collections; many are fresh to the market. Founded on Bill Rau’s expertise in the field, our specialisms range from Old Master pictures to Modern Art masterpieces. We regularly exhibit Dutch, Flemish, and Italian Old Masters, Academic, Orientalist, Barbizon, Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, Maritime & Sporting, British Neoclassical and American Illustration.

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For more than a century, M.S. Rau has offered clients a superb selection of the highest quality jewelry. From the rarest colored diamonds, to the most sublime gemstones, to the most exquisite designer jewelry, M.S. Rau houses an extraordinary collection of fine jewels to satisfy the most discerning collector. Stunning creations by Tiffany & Co., Cartier, Van Cleef & Arpels, Harry Winston and Patek Philippe are offered alongside extreme rarities such as vivid yellow, pink and blue diamonds, coveted Burma and Kashmir sapphires and elusive Golconda diamonds prized for their fire and perfection. Iconic jewels from the Art Deco, Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Victorian periods round out the collection.

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Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the. . .

Since 1912, M.S. Rau has been recognized as a leader in the antiques industry and today our collections of rare silver, furniture, clocks, porcelain, glass and objets d'art are second to none. Our commitment to curating the world’s most extraordinary and beautiful treasures has remained steadfast and our acquisition philosophy is simple: seek out and acquire only the very finest works whose provenance, beauty and rarity set them apart from all others. Our clients can be certain that each and every piece in our gallery has been hand-selected and carefully vetted for authenticity, condition and provenance. And, because our network of contacts spans generations, we are often able to acquire pieces that may have otherwise never been available on the market.

Whether you are just starting your collection, adding to an existing collection or even decorating your home, our team’s knowledge and experience can assist you in your endeavor. We have services and procedures in place to make your acquisition process both enjoyable and efficient.