LALIQUE & RUDY RICCIOTTI UNVEIL EDIFICIO: A MASTERPIECE OF CRYSTAL AND CONCRETE

Launch : April 4, 2025

When the ethereal brilliance of crystal meets the structural audacity of concrete, a new sculptural language is born. Lalique, the epitome of French crystal artistry for over a century, joins forces with visionary architect Rudy Ricciotti to unveil Edificio – a stunning vase that harmonizes material, technique, and artistic intent.

A limited-edition masterpiece, Edificio is a testament to the synergy between Lalique’s legendary glassmaking savoir-faire and Ricciotti’s radical architectural vision. More than a vase, Edificio is an object of pure architecture, translating the language of monumental construction into the refined world of decorative art.

A CONVERSATION BETWEEN MATERIALS

At the heart of Edificio lies a tale of metamorphosis – of fire, breath, and time shaping raw elements into something timeless. In Lalique’s historic ateliers in Wingen-sur-Moder, silica is transformed into crystal with the same reverence and precision with which Ricciotti elevates concrete into an expressive force that shapes the urban landscape.

This creation is born from a shared quest for excellence – a meeting of minds and mastery, where two seemingly contrasting materials reveal their intrinsic kinship. Edificio is a tribute to the artisan’s hand and the architect’s eye, forging a poetic connection between weight and transparency, density and light.

THE ARTISTRY OF LALIQUE

For over a century, Lalique has upheld the highest standards of craftsmanship, breathing life into molten crystal and sculpting objects of extraordinary beauty. Each piece is an heirloom of expertise, a treasure of knowledge meticulously passed down through generations.

The making of Edificio exemplifies this mastery: from the modeling to the satin-finished reliefs, each step is a testament to patience, precision, and a deep understanding of the material. Edificio stands as a pinnacle of this art, redefining the limits of what can be achieved in crystal.

FROM ARCHITECTURE TO ART

Edificio draws its inspiration from one of Ricciotti’s most striking architectural achievements – a Parisian landmark completed in 2022. Characterized by a dynamic interplay of structural tension and fluidity, the building’s nerve-like lattice of towering white concrete strands is distilled into the vertical rhythms of the Edificio vase.

Angles – precisely calculated at 90, 87, and 93 degrees – define the piece, echoing the balance between order and movement found in Ricciotti’s architectural language. Beyond an artistic interpretation, Edificio is a true homothety, seamlessly translating the essence of the building into crystalline form. It is the final stroke in Ricciotti’s architectural vision – crystallized in time.

A MASTERPIECE OF TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE

The creation of Edificio demanded exceptional technical prowess. From the initial steel mold to the final hand-polished details, each step posed a challenge met with unwavering dedication.

At the heart of Lalique’s ovens, 20 kilograms of molten crystal took shape under the guidance of master artisans, their expertise honed through decades of practice. Yet it was in the cold-glass workshops that the true alchemy unfolded – excess material meticulously removed, surfaces softened to perfection, and reliefs polished to achieve a luminous interplay of texture and light.

Like Ricciotti’s architecture, Edificio thrives on contrast. When filled with water, its structure seems to dissolve, breaking free of its rigid geometry – a mesmerizing illusion reminiscent of the architect’s signature floating concrete forms.

THE SPIRIT OF CRAFTSMANSHIP

For Rudy Ricciotti, craftsmanship is not just about technique – it is a responsibility, a commitment to preserving knowledge and expertise.

“The arts reflect the image of our country, honoring memory and sharing expertise. Since the 19th century, the decorative arts have embodied the brilliance of French artisanship. When it comes to excellence, crystal and concrete are alter egos.” - Rudy Ricciotti

Raised in a family of builders, Ricciotti has always seen material as the foundation of artistic creation. His architectural landmarks – including the MuCEM in Marseille, the Department of Islamic Arts at the Louvre, and Chanel’s 19M Fashion Manufactory – are defined by their bold structures and intricate craftsmanship. With Edificio, he extends this philosophy into the world of crystal.

EDIFICIO – A VASE BORN FROM ARCHITECTURE

Limited Edition: Numbered edition of 50 pieces

Material: Clear crystal

Dimensions: H 322 x L 275 x P 160 mm (H 12.60” x W 10.63” x D 6.30”)

Weight: 14.6 kg (30.86 lb)

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About Lalique

Founded in 1888 by visionary artist René Lalique, Lalique is a symbol of audacity, elegance, and artistic excellence. As one of the most prestigious French crystal glass houses, Lalique is synonymous with masterful craftsmanship, timeless design, and unparalleled savoir-faire. With an instantly recognizable aesthetic, Lalique transforms everyday moments into extraordinary experiences. From decorative objects to interior design, jewelry, perfumes, art, and hospitality, every creation embodies a refined lifestyle. Lalique collaborates with renowned artists and designers, including Zaha Hadid, Damien Hirst, Anish Kapoor, Yves Klein, Arik Levy, Terry Rodgers, and James Turrell, to craft extraordinary pieces that unite innovation and tradition. These exclusive partnerships bring bold artistic visions to life through Lalique’s exceptional craftsmanship. Since 1922, each work of art is handcrafted in Lalique’s historic Alsace manufacture, ensuring a legacy of excellence.

Press Contacts

UK - SIMON+SIMON COMMUNICATIONS

Sonia SANSON DUBAN | sonia@simonplussimon.com

Lucie RISACHER | lucie@simonplussimon.com

Melissa BYRNE | melissa@simonplussimon.com

USA - THE CONSULTANCY PR

Jacob MCLEAN | Lalique@tcpr.co

INTERNATIONAL - LALIQUE

Elle STEINBRECHER | elle.steinbrecher@lalique-group.com

Vân BOUCHET | vbouchet@lalique.fr

Cerise GUISEZ | cguisez@lalique.fr