Georges Briard was a noted, award winning designer in the 50s, 60s, and 70s. He is most well known for his signature dishware and glassware - everything from cups and plates to gold plated serving dishes. Most famous for dishware and glassware, his signature collection was stocked at high-end department stores, like Neiman-Marcus.
Born in Russia, he moved to Chicago from Poland in 1937. He studied at the Art Institute of Chicago where he earned his MFA.. He served in the U.S. Army throughout World War II as a Russian interpreter. As an Army interpreter fluent in several languages, he served on Gen. George S. Patton's staff. In 1947, he was discharged from the Army and started working in New York with Max Wille, whom he had met in art school. He began painting metal serving trays for sale, eventually moving into his most well-known and commercially successful creations--glass serveware bearing his signature. I found a classic "Persian Garden" Briard small glass tray last year at Goodwill.
It's in excellent condition.
I don't know why, but it took me awhile to decide to pick up this extra large, sectioned tray today. It is the same pattern. I was attempting to control my thrifting urges, but I ended up going back for it. My nephew was with me and he said "why wouldn't you?" The kid makes perfect sense. This has a very tiny chips at the corners, but it's great.
(Back)
The glass is milky white, unlike the first one. At 15 inches square, it's nearly twice the size of the other. I really should sell both of them (this is supposed to be a business after all), but I am very tempted to keep them. We'll see...it'll depend on what I can do with them. I have enough trays, and this would have to be on display. It's not meant to be stored. I'm open to suggestions!
One another note, I'm very fond of this handmade bowl.
Isn't it pretty? I love it even more when it's filled with something delicious, like these big, juicy Ranier cherries.
And with that, I'll have to stop for now. I need my hands.
Wish you were here! Just kidding--I'm not sharing!
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