Daniel Lebard’s 20th-Century French Furniture Collection at Christie’s Paris

The world of 20th-century French furniture design is a testament to innovation, craftsmanship, and the evolution of aesthetic sensibilities. Daniel Lebard’s collection, featuring works from iconic designers such as Le Corbusier, Charlotte Perriand, Jean Prouvé, and Jean Royère, is a remarkable assembly that spans six decades of design history. This collection, which will be auctioned at Christie’s in Paris, encapsulates the essence of modernist design and its profound impact on both functional and decorative arts.

The Genesis of the Collection

Daniel Lebard’s journey into 20th-century design began in the 1980s, when many of the now-celebrated pieces were not yet widely appreciated. His early recognition of the significance of these designs positioned him as a pioneer in the market for modernist furniture. Advised by prominent gallerists such as Philippe Jousse, Patrick Seguin, and François Laffanour, Lebard cultivated a collection showcasing modernist aesthetics’ evolution and highlighting the ingenuity and humanistic values that these designers embodied.

Key Designers and Their Contributions

Jean Prouvé 1901-1984

Jean Prouvé’s contributions to design and architecture are marked by his background as a metalworker, shaping his unique approach to furniture making. His works, including the iconic Trapeze table and the BA12 sideboard, reflect a minimalist philosophy emphasizing functionality and aesthetic purity. Prouvé’s designs often incorporate industrial materials and techniques, aligning with the modernist ethos of merging art with industry.

Charlotte Perriand (1903-1999)

Charlotte Perriand’s designs, like the mid-1950s dining table in this collection, are praised for their tactile qualities and use of natural materials. Her collaboration with Le Corbusier on the Unité d’Habitation in Marseille produced innovative modular kitchens that followed ergonomic principles, highlighting her forward-thinking approach to functional design.

Jean Royère (1902-1981)

Jean Royère’s work is synonymous with elegance and whimsical forms. His ability to blend traditional craftsmanship with contemporary aesthetics made him a standout figure in mid-20th-century design. Royère’s pieces often feature playful yet sophisticated elements that capture the imagination, elevating everyday furniture into works of art.

Union des Artistes Modernes (UAM)

The UAM, active from 1929 to 1959, played a key role in shaping the modernist movement in France. The group focused on innovation, functionality, and rejecting ornamentation. This emphasis is clear in the works included in Lebard’s collection. Designers linked with the UAM, such as Prouvé and Perriand, pushed the limits of traditional design and created pieces that are still influential today.

Highlights of the Collection

• Prouvé’s Fauteuil Visiteur (1948): A rare Kangarou version of this chair exemplifies Prouvé’s mastery in combining comfort with minimalist design.
• Perriand and Le Corbusier’s Modular Kitchen (1952): This complete kitchen set from the Unité d’Habitation in Marseille is a testament to Perriand’s ergonomic and modular design philosophy.
• Matégot’s Papillon Chair (1954): Featuring the delicate Rigitulle sheet metal, this chair showcases Matégot’s innovative use of materials.

Artistic Collaborations and Influences

The collection also includes significant artworks by renowned artists such as Jannis Kounellis, Takis, Bernd and Hilla Becher, Jean-Michel Basquiat, Imi Knoebel, and Thomas Ruff. These works highlight the cross-disciplinary influences between fine art and design, underscoring the holistic approach of the modernist movement.

The Legacy of Modernist Design

The 20th-century modernist movement represented a seismic shift in design philosophy, moving away from decorative excess towards simplicity, functionality, and a celebration of industrial materials. The pieces in Daniel Lebard’s collection are not merely functional objects but artifacts of a revolutionary period in design history. They embody the principles of balance, contrast, emphasis, movement, pattern and repetition, proportion and scale, unity and variety, and space and depth.

Conclusion

The Daniel Lebard collection is a rare and invaluable assemblage that offers a comprehensive view of 20th-century French furniture design. It is a powerful reminder of the enduring legacy of modernist principles and the visionary designers who shaped them. As these pieces come to auction, they provide a unique opportunity for collectors and continue to inspire and influence contemporary design.

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