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Discovering the Art of Glass at Ambassadeur Hotel in Metz, France
Unveiling the Beauty and Craftsmanship of French Glass
Reporting from Metz, France — On a recent journey to the Alsace-Lorraine region in northeastern France, I had the pleasure of exploring the captivating world of French glassmaking. While my original plan to visit the Musée Lalique in Wingen-sur-Moder was delayed, I stumbled upon a remarkable array of renowned French glass that left me awe-inspired.
A Rich Legacy of Glassmaking
Towns Rich in Glassmaking Heritage and Tradition
Nestled along the border with Germany, the towns in this area have been synonymous with glassmaking since the Middle Ages. In the seemingly Germanic town of Meisenthal, the Centre International d’Art Verrier, or the Center for International Glass Art, stands as a testament to this enduring tradition. Founded in 1992 on the premises where Emile Galle crafted stunning Art Nouveau glass in the late 19th century, this center showcases the mastery and creativity of glass artisans.
Unveiling the Secrets of Glassmaking
As I embarked on a guided tour at the Center for International Glass Art, I delved into the intricate process of creating exquisite glass artworks. The tour took me through a mesmerizing display of both molded and hand-blown glass pieces. From high above the furnaces, I marveled at the skillful precision of a glass blower inserting a hollow pipe into a slab of radiant orange glass, delicately blowing a fragile bubble.
The Magic of Glass: Skill, Speed, and Beauty
The glass blower deftly shifted the bubble to a second pipe, carefully dipping it into powdered cobalt. With a graceful twirl, a delicate swirl of ultramarine adorned the rim of the bubble. The guide emphasized the importance of quickness and strength in this process. In just 15 minutes, the glass blower fashioned a remarkable vase. Witnessing this captivating artistry, I was drawn to the center’s shop, where I purchased a lavender glass Christmas ornament shaped like a cluster of Alsatian grapes.
A Scenic Journey: From Meisenthal to Metz
An Enchanting Drive
Departing from Meisenthal, we embarked on a scenic drive toward Obernai, meandering along the winding roads flanking the Vosges Mountains. The picturesque towns along the way bore German names, subtly reminding us of the region’s historical conflicts between France and Germany. Our journey led us to a delightful lunch at Le Lion d’Or in La Petite Pierre, a former coaching inn. The menu featured a delectable fusion of French and German flavors, such as smoked salmon stuffed with vegetables and chicken stuffed with ham and cheese.
Crystal Brilliance in Saint-Louis-lès-Bitche
A short distance from the restaurant, we encountered the Musée du Cristal Saint-Louis in Saint-Louis-lès-Bitche. Celebrated for its crystal, chandeliers, and intricately engraved two-color glass, this museum is a testament to the region’s mastery of the craft. Founded in 1767 on the site of a glassworks that dates back to 1586, the museum provides visitors with a captivating glimpse into the history of crystal and glassmaking.
Exploring Nancy’s Artistic Treasures
Venturing north for 70 miles, we found ourselves in the enchanting city of Nancy, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. At the heart of the city lies the Musée de l’École de Nancy, home to an extensive collection of Daum and Galle glass. In the 19th century, Jean Daum and his sons transformed a struggling glass business into one of Europe’s premier glassworks. Displayed in the museum’s basement, amidst the immense foundations of the town’s medieval walls, is a mesmerizing sea of vibrant colored glass pieces adorning shelves and hanging from the ceiling.
The Modern Beauty of Stained Glass in Metz
Our glass-filled journey concluded in the historic town of Metz, just 29 miles away. Within the Gothic cathedral, I marveled at the magnificent stained-glass windows created by Marc Chagall. His modern interpretation of this ancient art form infused the cathedral with brilliant yellows, blues, and reds. As the setting sun cast vibrant patterns on the ancient stone, I couldn’t help but be captivated by the multihued splendor.
Embark on Your Own Glass Adventure at Ambassadeur Hotel
Discover the allure of French glassmaking at Ambassadeur Hotel in Metz. Immerse yourself in the world of renowned glass artists, witness the intricate glassmaking process, and explore the fascinating history of this timeless craft. Uncover the magic of French glass at Ambassadeur Hotel.
