The renowned Daum glassworks has roots tracing back to the Franco-Prussian War of 1870, when Jean Daum financed a glassworks in Nancy. Later, the business was entrusted to his sons, Auguste and Antonin Daum, who followed in Émile Gallé's footsteps to establish Art Nouveau glassware. The two brothers—one a manager and the other a creative mind—combined their respective talents effectively.

Their creations, featuring Japonist and naturalist motifs, presented unique asymmetries and skillfully blended traditional and new glassworking techniques. The Daum workshop nurtured some of the great glass artists of the time, such as Jacques Grüber and Walter. While their regular production satisfied a loyal clientele, the exceptional pieces showcased at universal exhibitions firmly established the reputation of the Daum brothers.

The family enterprise became renowned for its exquisite glasswork: double-layered glass, multi-layered glass, tinted and acid-decorated glass, and hot-worked glass with inclusions, cabochons, or hammering, shaped into polychrome bowls and vases with landscape and floral motifs.

The introduction of pâte de verre, geometric motifs, and innovative colors ensured the longevity of the Daum Manufacture, which skillfully bridged the transition from Art Nouveau to Art Deco while continually enhancing the quality of its regular production. Exceptional pieces from the Daum glassworks continue to enjoy success on the international art market.

Our specialists are highly experienced in appraising iconic pieces from 20th-century Decorative Arts and Design. They offer free, confidential valuations by appointment. Feel free to contact us to discuss the purchase or sale of a piece by this artist or within this field.

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