BY BACCARAT, PARIS, CIRCA 1900

Founded in 1764 by Royal consent, the firm of Baccarat became known as the Compagnie des Cristalleries de Baccarat during the 19th century. François-Eugène de Fontenay (who joined the company in 1841) discovered that by the addition of nickel oxide in the manufacturing process, a perfectly clear product, "crystal glass", free of discolouration and imitating precious rock crystal, was produced. Another chandelier of this model sold Christie's, London, 22 September 2011, lot 239 (£51,650).