Degue: French Art Deco Glass by David Gueron
Degue is the trade name of art glass produced by the Verrerie d'Art Degue, a French glassworks operated by David Gueron in Compiegne, France, from approximately 1926 to 1939. Specializing in Art Deco cameo glass, acid-etched vases, and lighting fixtures, Degue produced bold geometric and stylized floral designs that exemplify the Art Deco aesthetic. The factory's output is distinct from d'Argental and De Vez, though all three are collected within the broader French cameo glass category.
History and Production
- David Gueron: Founder and artistic director; his initials form the basis of the "Degue" name
- c. 1926-1939: Active production period, coinciding with the height of Art Deco design
- The factory was located in Compiegne, north of Paris
- Production focused on decorative glassware and lighting, primarily for the French domestic market
- Degue glass was also retailed through major Parisian department stores
- The factory closed at the onset of World War II
Identification and Marks
- Signed "Degue" in cameo or etched script, usually near the base
- Some pieces bear additional markings indicating retail outlets
- The glass features two or more layers of colored glass with acid-etched decoration
- Art Deco motifs predominate: geometric patterns, stylized flowers, sunbursts, and abstract designs
- Common color combinations: mottled orange over frost, blue over white, amber with brown cameo
- Mottled and streaked color effects in the ground glass are characteristic of Degue production
Types and Forms
- Vases: The most common form, ranging from small cabinet pieces to large floor vases
- Lighting fixtures: Ceiling pendants, wall sconces, and table lamps with acid-etched shades
- Bowls and centerpieces: Broad, shallow forms with geometric decoration
- Plafonnier (ceiling light): Dome-shaped acid-etched glass shades, often with wrought iron mounts
- Chandelier bowls: Large bowl-shaped shades for pendant lights
Auction Price Ranges
| Item Type | Typical Range | Premium Examples |
|---|---|---|
| Small vase (6-8 in.) | $150 - $400 | Exceptional design: $500 - $1,000 |
| Medium vase (9-12 in.) | $300 - $800 | Bold Art Deco: $1,000 - $2,000 |
| Large vase (14+ in.) | $500 - $1,500 | Statement piece: $2,000 - $4,000 |
| Ceiling light (plafonnier) | $200 - $600 | With iron mount: $700 - $1,500 |
| Wall sconce (pair) | $300 - $800 | Art Deco iron mounts: $1,000 - $2,500 |
| Table lamp | $500 - $2,000 | Complete, original: $2,500 - $5,000 |
| Bowl or centerpiece | $150 - $500 | Large, elaborate: $600 - $1,200 |
Condition Factors
- Acid-etched decoration should be crisp and well-defined; worn or damaged etching reduces value
- Chips on the rim or base are common and reduce value by 20-40%
- Lighting fixtures should retain original iron mounts and hardware; replaced components diminish value
- Color vibrancy matters; the mottled color effects that characterize Degue should be rich and appealing
- Cracks are serious defects, especially in lighting fixtures where structural integrity matters
Collecting Tips
- Degue lighting fixtures (plafonniers, sconces, and lamps) are the most distinctive and sought-after category
- Bold, geometric Art Deco patterns are more valuable than generic floral designs
- Complete lighting fixtures with original wrought iron mounts command significant premiums
- Large vases in vivid color combinations make impressive display pieces and perform well at auction
- Degue is often more affordable than comparable Daum or Schneider Art Deco glass, making it a strong value proposition
- The factory's limited production period (barely 13 years) means total output was modest, supporting long-term collecting interest