An introduction to the Cristallerie Saint-Louis museum, in Saint-Louis-lès-Bitche

Set against the open sky and forests surrounding the village of Saint-Louis-lès-Bitche in Vosges, the Cristallerie Saint-Louis resonates with the sounds of glassmaking. The Moselle-based company is owned by the Hermès Group and has put a shine on the French lifestyle industry since the time of Louis XIV. Its expertise can be admired in both its workshops and « La Grande Place », its crystal museum.

An introductory tour at the crystal museum

Surrounded by a pristine natural setting, the museum offers visitors an introduction to the company’s technical innovations and artistic creations. The museum experience was designed by the architecture firm Lipsky+Rollet. Just inside the main doors, walkways overlooking the building’s two large, glass-walled halls surround a giant chandelier suspended above the factory’s basement level.

The museum guide will tell you the weight of this chandelier, which illuminates the building’s hundred-year-old foundations. © DR

After engraving comes the gilding stage, which requires incredible precision. © DR

A guided tour through a legendary site

The museum features 2 000 pieces and a number of exhibitions throughout the year. The guided tour introduces visitors to the artisans, including stone carvers, engravers, and gilders, who have made the company’s reputation what it is today. Some of these workers have been named Meilleurs Ouvriers de France, a prestigious award presented to the country’s top craftspeople. After the dazzling tour, you can take home beautiful pieces from these timeless and iconic collections for yourself.

These timeless glasses and carafes have held pride of place on some of Europe’s finest tables. © DR