Occasionally seen for auction on eBay, these lovely pieces often bring many questions.  The purpose of this guide is to shed a bit of light on the origin and history of this type of glassware.

The origin of ART Vannes was in the village of Vannes-le-Chantel located in the eastern region of France (precisely, Lorraine County).  History traces its roots to about 1765 under aristocratic patronage.  Fast forward to 1960, where over 600 glassmakers resided in the region, whose production included lead-based artistic pieces formed in moulds bought from defunct makers.  Today, Europe's largest glassmaking school (CERFAV) is located in the region.  Additionally, several French crystal companies (Baccarat, Daum, and Portieux) are located in the area.  It was in about 1970 that ART Vannes discontinued production, and Cristal de Sevres was born.  Later, they produced under the brand of Daum.

Most popular are a large range of mould-blown, furnace-worked, and polished animal figures.  While they vary somewhat in size, typical figures are approximately 5 to 7 inches long by 3 to 5 inches in height.  They are substantially heavy in weight, and very pleasing to the eye.  Moulded baskets, dishes, and bowls are even larger.  Each piece is etched on the underside of its base with a dashed square.  The square is situated with its corners in the "north, east, south, west" positions.  Inside the square is etched ART Vannes FRANCE.  Expect to pay approximately $45 for the animal figures.  Baskets, dishes, and bowls will be higher in price--from approximately $75 to several hundred.

Because the ART Vannes FRANCE furnaces were in operation only from 1950 to 1970, these gorgeous pieces are considered quite a special find.