The animal world has greatly inspired René Lalique. The proof is in the richness of his bestiary (mammals, insects, fish) and his genius for naturalism. Once the crystal has cooled, the sculptures – such as this wolf – pass through the expert hands of the engraver. Using a diamond-tipped cutter, the craftsman accentuates the hollows and bumps of the animal’s coat. The sculpture is then immersed in a matting bath in order to obtain the satin finish so dear to Lalique. Crystal engraving is a meticulous process that requires more than ten years of training.