Simply Abu Dhabi VIII

2 3 0 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I initial mixture of crystal, cobalt oxide, copper oxide, manganese dioxide, chrome oxide and iron oxide. The proportions are as closely guarded as a state secret. The result is an alchemic paradox: dark clarity and opaque transparency! In 1925, the black crystal Vesques vase, engraved and decorated with camellias and plant motifs in polychrome glazes, illustrated this extraordinary expertise. Universal exhibitions were held regularly throughout the nineteenth century: in 1867, the public was astonished by two exquisite vases, lined with ruby red and with a sumptuous wheel engraved motif by Jean-Baptiste Simon; and a crystal fountain seven meters high. In 1878, a round crystal temple, an “Elephant” liquor cabinet and huge candelabras enchanted them. Gold medals were awarded for these amazing techniques, which were so extraordinary that the poetry and magic masked the incomparable technical achievement. Baccarat’s fame spread around the world. Baccarat shops were opened in Bombay, Moscow, Saint Petersburg, Persia, Egypt, Asia and on the American continent. Few could resist the allure of a gorgeous Baccarat-crafted piece. Baccarat has continued to evolve and change with the times. It was the first crystal factory to adjust to the advent of electricity, and adapted its chandeliers and candelabras for electrical power in 1896 by engineering models with hollow branches. And it was with sumptuous, luxurious chandeliers – with up to 250 lights each – that Baccarat really cemented its fame. Spirit of Baccarat Today Baccarat’s range of products is broader than ever, but its appeal remains timeless. The Baccarat brand represents a wildly contemporary lifestyle of beauty and excess. It is an everlasting fantasy, a poetic and sensual experience that sparkles on the skin or around a table, transforming space with its light. The Baccarat style is a banquet of the senses, an intimate dialogue with objects that truly have a soul. A Baccarat piece is much more than just a valuable object: it elicits a rare emotion and epitomises an idea of fulfilment and perfection. Light – mysterious and fascinating when reflected off black crystal, or sparkling on ruby red – scintillates on the facets of a Harcourt glass, wreathes a precious jewel and shimmers over a chandelier. The iconic Zénith chandelier The Zénith chandelier is one of a long line of traditional crystal models developed by Baccarat from its earliest days in the first half of the 19th century. It comprises bevelled diamond-shaped