After a ten-year hiatus, the esteemed crystal manufacturer Baccarat marks its grand reentry into the Milan Design Week. This highly anticipated return showcases an exciting partnership with designer Bethan Laura Wood, who has boldly reinterpreted Baccarat's signature 'Zénith' chandelier. Originating in the mid-19th century, the 'Zénith' has long been celebrated for its intricate crystal components and diamond-cut tassels, enduring as a hallmark of the brand's exquisite craftsmanship.
Wood's innovative approach to the 'Zénith' involves a deconstruction and subsequent reassembly into a contemporary vertical modular system. This new structure utilizes star-shaped metal supports, suspended by steel wires, giving the impression of 'hovering spacecraft'. These metallic frameworks serve as the foundation for a dynamic interplay of crystal forms and hues, drawing inspiration from both historical design principles and novel configurations. Wood explains her objective: to devise a system capable of producing chandeliers of varying dimensions, stating, 'I aimed to challenge the conventional construction of chandeliers, preserving the baroque essence while infusing it with a more minimalist and abstract interpretation.'
The collection further extends to include two wall sconces, each incorporating the reflective backing and distinctive pinched diamond lozenge, along with subtle floral details. These sconces, according to Wood, achieve a delicate balance between baroque opulence and a modern, almost space-age aesthetic, evoking whimsical resemblances to insects. She appreciates their versatility, noting, 'They function beautifully as individual pieces, yet can also be combined to forge a more dramatic installation.'
This pioneering collection will be featured in 'Crystal Crypt,' an immersive, sci-fi-inspired exhibition curated by Emmanuelle Luciani. Luciani envisions Baccarat as a 'temporal bubble, a vessel-cathedral of unparalleled craftsmanship.' The exhibition, blending movement, film, scenography, and sound, draws inspiration from the Saint-Rémy church in Baccarat and the works of science fiction author Philip K. Dick. This journey between historical roots and future possibilities underscores Baccarat's enduring legacy of reinventing traditional artistry through dynamic creative collaborations and a contemporary perspective.