Vase Legras et Cie; France; c. 1930

Vase Legras et Cie; France; c. 1930
Enameled and carved glass
Measurements: 28 x 15 cm.
François-Théodore Legras joined the glass factory in his native village at the age of 20 as a clerk, where he learned his trade. At 24 he moved to go to work at the glass factory in La Plaine Saint-Denis, near Paris, where he was hired, again, as a clerk. Six months later he became production manager and, in 1866, at the age of 27, director of the glass factory.
He subsequently built a new factory which, over the years, became an industrial complex of almost 20,000 square meters. He served as managing director of Legras et Cie, and later of Verrerie et Cristallerie de Saint-Denis.
From 1914 onwards, production changed style and was inspired by Art Deco, with a return to simple lines and a certain sobriety. His favorite subjects are all varieties of chrysanthemums, lilies and orchids, but also manufactures frosted glasses.
He practiced all glass techniques and was a great admirer of Emile Gallé whom he tried to imitate in artistic pieces. His works are not always signed, but his style often allows them to be easily recognized.