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Christies, New York will offer a exemplary collection of works by René Lalique—the most distinguished French artist working in glass through the first four decades of the 20th century. The sale takes place on 10 February 2006, 10:00 am at 20 Rockefeller Plaza, New York

"The French have an evocative phrase to describe the media of artistic glass and ceramics. The term 'les arts du feu' effectively conjures the image of works born in the heat and fury of the furnace, the exacting, time-sensitive processes that—a kind of alchemy—turn the base materials sand and clay into magical artefacts.

Pictured right: Grenouilles et Nénuphars, A Molded and Applied Glass Vase, model introduced 1912, Marcilhac p. 408-H, 8 3/16 in. (20.8 cm.) high Estimate: $300,000-400,000

René Lalique came to prominence as a creator of superb Art Nouveau jewels. His work was characterised by an exceptional graphic refinement and by a readiness to experiment in the mix and contrast of so-called precious and non-precious materials.

Lalique became fascinated by the qualities of cast glass and its close cousin, enamel. His translucent enamels were exquisite miniature equivalents of stained glass. Here was the basis for the major new chapter of Lalique's artistic career that is celebrated in the present catalogue of works from the Kajikawi collection.

Pictured left: Branches de Laiteron, A Cire Perdue Glass Vase, 1914, Marcilhac p. 991, CP 77, 7 7/8 in. (20 cm.) high, Estimate: $220,000-280,000

Through this splendid selection of pieces we can observe Lalique's flair in developing motifs drawn from nature, his unique eye for form and proportion, and the assurance, elegance and sensuousness of his lines. And we see Lalique's deep respect for his material, be it smooth and translucent as clear water, textured like ice, vivid in jewel-like tints of ruby, emerald or amber, or mysterious as opal.

Mr. Kajikawi well exemplifies the particular sensitivity of Japanese collectors and connoisseurs towards the creations of the greatest French glassmakers of the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods. He has enjoyed an engrossing and enlightening journey of discovery, and has assembled an exemplary collection of works by René Lalique—the most distinguished French artist working in glass through the first four decades of the 20th century.

Now Mr. Kajikawa is ready to see others enjoy the objects that inspired his passion as a collector.

Christie's would like to acknowledge the generosity of Ambassador and Madame de Montferrand, and their staff, in hosting a private preview of highlights from the Kajikawa Collection in the splendid environment of the French Embassy in Tokyo, Japan in November 2005."

Philippe Garner, Director of 20th Century Decorative Art & Photographs, London

For more details visit the Christies web site.