Édouard Bénédictus

Édouard Bénédictus was a French artist, chemist and inventor whose diverse work made him a unique figure in the art and science worlds of the early 20th century. Born in Paris in 1878, Bénédictus grew up in a time of great cultural and technological change, which shaped his diverse interests and his later work. Originally trained as a painter, he soon expanded his work to include textile design, book illustration and glassware, always displaying an exceptional ability to synthesize art and science.

His contribution to art and science is particularly notable for his invention of safety glass in 1903. He made this discovery by chance after a glass vial coated with cellulose nitrate fell in his laboratory and failed to shatter. This observation led to the development of a glass that would not shatter into sharp shards when broken, which found widespread applications in the automotive industry, buildings, and the manufacture of safety glasses. Bénédictus' curiosity and experimental approach to various disciplines allowed him to combine artistic vision with practical applications, making his work relevant to this day.

Interesting fact:

In addition to his groundbreaking work with safety glass, Édouard Bénédictus was also a talented musician and composer. He wrote several plays for the theater and was known for his ability to fuse artistic expressions. His musical compositions often reflect the same joy of innovation and experimentation that characterize his visual and scientific works.

Important works of art & images by Édouard Bénédictus:

• “Variations” series (1920s)
• “Floral Composition” (1910)
• “Design for a book cover” (1909)
• “Geometric Pattern Design” (1925)
• “Illustrations for 'La Plante et ses Applications Ornementales'” (1896)
• “Glass Vase Design” (1920)
• “Textile design with an abstract pattern” (1920s)
• “Set for 'Le Coq d'Or'” (1937)
• “Safety glass patent drawing” (1909)
• “Decorative Plate” (1910)