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DEPARTMENT OF MODERN FURNITURE
The modern furniture department specializes in the sale of pieces and creations from the major movements of the 20th century, including Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Design. These movements revolutionized architecture, furniture, objects, and the art of living from the early 20th century onward. Today, these pieces continue to captivate collectors and art enthusiasts. Through a carefully curated selection, we offer iconic and rare pieces that highlight visionary creators whose impact on our way of life is undeniable.
Art Nouveau: Nature and innovation at the heart of decorative Arts
Emerging at the end of the 19th century, Art Nouveau is an artistic movement distinguished by its sinuous lines, organic shapes, and motifs inspired by nature. This style profoundly influenced the decorative arts, particularly through the creation of furniture and objects that blend beauty with functionality. Our Decorative Arts department offers rare pieces from legendary creators such as Hector Guimard, known for his famous Paris metro entrances, and Antoni Gaudí, whose architecture and decorative objects are iconic symbols of Art Nouveau. Artists like Émile Gallé, a master glassmaker, also stand out with their vases and objects adorned with floral and organic motifs, perfect examples of the craftsmanship of the time.
Art Deco: Refinement, luxury, and geometry
Art Deco emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, offering a more geometric and refined style, emphasizing the use of precious and luxurious materials. This movement had a profound impact on furniture, decorative objects, architecture, and even fashion. Our auction house offers a selection of Art Deco objects and furniture from key creators such as René Lalique, the master of glass, and Jean Dunand, whose metal and lacquer pieces embody the sophistication of the movement. Designers like Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann, known for his luxurious rosewood and ebony furniture, are also represented by rare works that combine elegance and functionality.
Design: A search for simplicity and functionality
Design, which emerged in the 20th century, is characterized by its quest for simplicity, ergonomics, and clean aesthetics. It distinguished itself through the use of new materials and minimalist forms. Our department showcases iconic creations by renowned designers such as Charles and Ray Eames, famous for their functional and elegant furniture, including the iconic Eames Lounge Chair. Scandinavian designer Arne Jacobsen is also represented by pieces like the Egg Chair, which combines comfort and aesthetics. Creators such as Marcel Breuer, a pioneer in the use of metal in furniture, and Philippe Starck, known for his innovative objects and furniture, further enrich our department's offerings.
A moment of perfection in Decorative Arts
Our auctions provide a unique opportunity to acquire rare and prestigious pieces from Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Design. With estimates on furniture, decorative objects, and design, our team offers expert guidance to assist you in your acquisitions. If you wish to have your design or furniture pieces appraised, our specialized auctioneers will provide valuable insights into the current value of your items, helping you optimize your transactions.
We also assist with appraisals of 20th-century furniture for personal collections or for the sale of high-end art and furniture. With recognized expertise and a dedicated team, our auction house offers a refined and precise selection of the best creators from the Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Design movements. These pieces, whether furniture, decorative objects, or sculptures, are exceptional testimonies of the creative genius of these periods and now find new life in the auction market.
Whether you're a design enthusiast, a collector, or an art lover, Saint Paul Auction offers unique objects and creations to enrich your collections or invest in high-value pieces. With our personalized appraisals and expert follow-up, we provide you with a privileged opportunity to acquire works of great quality, combining beauty, history, and innovation.
For remote expertise requests, you can complete the online form.
To have your treasures appraised, please consult the schedule of expertise days or contact us.
