‘My particular expertise is in art nouveau and art deco,’ says Christie’s specialist Fiona Baker, showing a selection of some of the extraordinary pieces she works with — from art nouveau masters including Lalique and Gallé.
‘Lalique would never give away his recipe for opalescent glass — I believe one of the ingredients in this is arsenic,’ comments Baker, offering an intriguing insight to the artisan’s exceptionally detailed Ceylan vase.
Baker also has advice for aspiring collectors, showing how expert knowledge can differentiate a fake sculpture from its authentic art nouveau equivalent. Check back in for further videos and features with the specialists at Christie’s South Kensington, which is celebrating its 40th anniversary with a series of special events.
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