In 1928, René Lalique designed the decorative panels Merles et Raisins Head Down and Head Up in white molded pressed glass on a silver background to decorate the Cuban mahogany marquetry of the Presidential Wagon in the famous Orient Express. The pattern Merles et Raisins revives a motif synonymous with elegance and the "Art de Vivre", depicting a charming design of blackbirds pecking at tiny clusters of grapes. The fineness of the motif, enhanced by the purity of the crystal brings light effects ,giving life and movement to the piece. These panel