Preliminary identification
Photo reference
1 uploaded photo
Overview
A stunning, heavy-molded crystal bowl designed by Marc Lalique in 1951, featuring stylized, deeply frosted plane tree leaves that mimic the famous foliage lining the Champs-Élysées avenue in Paris. The seller's caption misidentified this iconic centerpiece bowl as a 'butter dish' (which is actually the much smaller, ribbed circular dish sitting to its lower right).
Story
In 1951, Marc Lalique looked out at the sun-drenched plane trees of Paris's most famous avenue and captured their essence in heavy crystal. This design became an instant symbol of post-war Parisian glamour and luxury.
Maker / Origin
Founded by master jeweler and glassmaker René Lalique in 1888, the house of Lalique became synonymous with French Art Nouveau and Art Deco. After René's passing in 1945, his son Marc took the helm, transitioning the company from glass to brilliant lead crystal and introducing bolder, more sculptural designs like this leaf bowl.
Condition & Value
The bowl appears to be in very good condition with no obvious chips to the delicate leaf tips. However, because these heavy crystal pieces are often slid across tables, the underside must be checked for scratches or 'flea bites' which can reduce the value by 20-30%.
Full Research
Sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance pulled from recent auction results.
Build on this identification
Layer in sold comps, value drivers, and venue guidance.
Comparable demand stays strongest where maker, originality, and venue confidence line up. Broader examples still trade, but the range tightens quickly when provenance, condition, or selling lane fit is missing.
Best Venue
Specialty auction or a focused dealer with buyers already in this lane.
Signed example with light edge wear and original frame.
Comparable format with stronger provenance and cleaner surface.
Smaller related piece with visible craquelure and trimmed margins.
Period match with softer condition and weaker subject matter.
Close market lane comp with similar material and presentation.