Emile Gallé

Émile Gallé was a French glass designer, considered to be one of the leading exponents of the Art Nouveau style and innovators of French art glass, which saw its renaissance in around 1900. The discovery of the arts of Japan and China at the Universal Exhibition of 1889 was a liberating experience for many European designers, who were able to free themselves from the stylistic constraints of the past. Of central importance was the depiction of the natural world, which would become the primary source of inspiration and the plant kingdom unfurls wonderfully in their creations. In 1884, Gallé invented the technique of multi-layered glass. Alongside his unique pieces, Gallé was able to develop the mass production of certain lines of vases and lights. This innovative approach allowed him to spread his output widely, ensuring his novel designs reached the broadest possible audience. Gallé was awarded a ‘Grand Prix’ medal during the Universal Exhibition of 1900, cementing his international reputation.