ARTWORK: EXHIBITION OF FRANK GEHRY'S HENNESSY X.O MATHUSALEM AT SAMARITAINE

March 8, 2022

After a first artistic collaboration in 2020, the Maison Hennessy has once again called on architect Frank Gehry to reinterpret its signature Hennessy X.O cognac. The exceptional bottle can be found in France, exclusively at Samaritaine.

An artistic collaboration marked by excellence

In 2020, the Maison Hennessy entrusted Frank Gehry with creating a new bottle to celebrate 150 years of Hennessy X.O cognac. This year, to continue this initial artistic collaboration, the Maison gave the architect a blank canvas to deliver his own vision of Hennessy cognacs’ singularity. From this partnership, a sculpture has been created, which encloses the Hennessy X.O methuselah in a crystal case. The unique piece is the perfect blend of art, architecture and craftsmanship, thanks to the combined expertise of Frank Gehry, the Maison Hennessy and the artisans from the crystal maker, Baccarat.

Art in motion

Inspired by ice formations and the way that ice captures and reflects light, Frank Gehry wanted to express the idea of life and movement through this creation. In the face of the technical complexities associated with such a project, the architect was able to rely on Baccarat's creativity and innovative spirit to help his vision take shape. With just 30 pieces in existence, this particular carafe was several months in the making of the Baccarat ateliers, as a specific mold had to be created for each bottle. The House artisans also had to develop new techniques and specific tools to shape the 30 kilos of Baccarat crystal that each bottle requires.

Samaritaine

An unforgettable setting for unforgettable artwork! From November 9, art connoisseurs will be able to admire the only Hennessy X.O methuselah by Frank Gehry in France at Samaritaine. Only five other bottles will be unveiled worldwide, in Shanghai, Hainan, Beijing, London and Macau.

This creation will be displayed in the department store on the second floor of the Pont-Neuf building, at the entrance to the watchmaking and jewelry quarter. It will be set within a bespoke design, which will highlight the contours of the sculpture.

From mid-November, the Hennessy X.O mathusalem by Frank Gehry will be available to purchase at a price of 150,000 euro.

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