The "Paperweight Exhibition 2017" by Saint-Louis, the oldest crystal maison in continental Europe, is being held on the second floor of the Hermès Ginza store until September 19th. During the exhibition, visitors can enjoy the microcosm unfolding through 10 limited-edition re-edition paperweights.
The beautiful Saint-Louis paperweights captivated literati in the 19th century. This prestigious maison was once granted permission by Louis XV to bear the name of Louis IX, known as "Saint Louis." It has also been a part of the Hermès Group since 1995.
The currently ongoing "Paperweight Exhibition 2017" features 10 re-editions of rare paperweight designs from previous releases, displayed in a diorama recreating the village of Saint-Louis. Looking into the spherical crystal, you will be captivated by the magnificent artwork, each carefully crafted by hand, including intricately crafted flowers with the stamens reproduced in minute detail, and fish swimming among white coral sunk to the bottom of the sea.
The lineup includes "Stag Flower," featuring two floating stag flowers about to bloom; "Marguerite," featuring a beautiful contrast between white and yellow petals and green leaves; "Aurora," featuring neatly arranged canes floating in concentric circles; "Iris Bouquet," featuring three irises finished with burner work; "Shore," featuring white coral sunk to the bottom of the deep blue opaline crystal sea with colorful fish swimming; and "Seaside," featuring a seascape with canes laid out on the base and Saint-Louis' signature design on top. "Comette" features two stars made using the traditional millefiori technique; "Angel" features a red ladybug nestled amid pale yellow flowers; "Plissé" features a clear crystal sphere tightly wrapped in cane, resembling luxurious pleated fabric; "Millefiori" combines millefiori and filigrane (a lace technique) to create a bouquet of wildflowers; and "Base Millefiori" features a traditional millefiori paperweight with a filigrane base. Each piece is a precious collection, with only 10 of each type in existence worldwide.
[Exhibition Information]
"Saint Louis Paperweight Exhibition 2017"
Dates: September 8th - 19th
Venue: 2nd floor, Hermès Ginza Store
Address: 5-4-1 Ginza, Chuo-ku, Tokyo
Hours: 11:00 - 20:00 (until 19:00 on Sundays)
