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Daum has been an important name in glass production in France since the late 1800's. In 1875 Jean Daum, father of Auguste (1853–1909) and Antonin (1864–1930), acquired a glass factory in Nancy and gave it the name «Verrerie de Nancy». In their early years glass tableware, which was usually decorated, was the major commercial item manufactured by, the Daums. In 1887 Auguste and Antonin assumed direction of the glass factory. The Daums, like Galle, were also undoubtedly influenced by the enamel work of Joseph Brocard and the glass work of Eugene Rousseau, and were strongly influenced by the work of Galle. The Daums, who also exhibited in Paris in 1889, were so inspired with Galle's work and his success at this exhibition that shortly thereafter they changed their line of work in glass to the production of art glass. Throughout the 1890's and into the 1900's the Daums produced cameo glass. They made some unique pieces of merit, but most of their creative works served as models for their industrial production. The Daums demonstrated skill in their wheel engraving. It is their acid-cut work with enamel and gold decoration, however, which has come to be recognized as their more typical style, and which accounts for a large portion of their cameo glass production. Daum proved a versatile manufacturer of art glass and produced a variety of styles in cameo glass, including commercial pieces with repetition of design and form as well as singular pieces of outstanding quality.

Image. Cameo glass vase with enamel decoration by Daum.

The Daums utilized many techniques developed by Galle and others. Nevertheless, they developed some techniques and their own artistic style. They gained the respect of Galle as reflected in some of his writings and as demonstrated by the fact that they were included as members of the Ecole de Nancy (School of Nancy). Daum suffered the pressures of the other art glass manufacturers with the passage of time and the change in the types of glass, which the public demanded. Daum adapted to these changes by producing different types and styles in glass. Auguste Daum died in 1909, with Antonin continuing as head of the factory. About 1920 Paul Daum became director. At this time the custom glass produced was much simpler in form, and many of the complex techniques of earlier years were not used. Since 1945 Henri and Michel Daum have continued to, produce decorative clear crystal in a modern style. Michel Daum is presently the artistic director of the Cristallerie de Nancy, and his brother Jacques is commercial director. The Daum glassworks is presently producing freely blown crystal of high quality. Daum signatures are found in gold gilt, acid etched, engraved with acid or wheel cutting, enameled, or in cameo relief. The signature almost always appears with the name «Nancy» and with the cross of Lorraine. Now and then the name «France» appears without the name «Nancy». Modern pieces are stamped and etched with the names «Daum» and «France,» and the cross of Lorraine.

Image. Cameo glass Vase by Daum.

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