Vase c. 1845 - 1860

This striking crimson vase was created by the Compagnie de Saint Louis, a glassmaking firm in France. Its vibrant color and intricate latticework border speak to the cultural and economic forces at play during its time of production. In France, as in other European nations, the production of luxury goods like glassware was closely tied to aristocratic patronage and courtly culture. Glassmaking firms like Saint Louis often relied on commissions from wealthy patrons and the royal family to sustain their business. As such, the aesthetic qualities of objects like this vase were often shaped by the tastes and preferences of the elite. In the 19th century, we see firms beginning to cater to wider audiences as the middle class expanded and began consuming luxury goods. Glassmakers had to balance traditional craft with the demands of an expanding market. Historical research into archival records and design catalogs might reveal the specific social context in which this vase was produced. Through this we can better understand the relationship between art, commerce, and social class in 19th century France.