Claude Lalanne, Unique "Structure Végétale" Console

J.G.M. Galerie, Paris

Acquired from the above by the present owner, 1994

A modern multidisciplinary master, Claude Lalanne drew inspiration from the natural world, consistently infusing her designs with whimsical wonder and beauty, rendering the mundane extraordinary. Her unique works take surrounding, pre-existing objects and transform them into artisanal works of functional and elegant art. Paired together, the unique ‘Végétale’ Console and unique ‘Hosta et Oiseau’ Mirror reflect the reverie and beauty of the natural world. 

The ‘Végétale’ Console is adorned with sinuous lines that gracefully curve and traverse the length of the piece, floating down to rest on the floor in an elegant and sophisticated demonstration of Lalanne’s masterful craftsmanship and deft sculptural hand. More abstract than other consoles by Lalanne, the present console puts mastery of material at the forefront of her refined design. Another rare and distinguishing feature is the rare treatment of the textured casting on the top, suggestive of linen fabric, beautifully complementing the smooth gold patinated bronze surfaces of the work.

Similarly, the unique ‘Hosta et Oiseau’ Mirror is an exemplary presentation of Claude’s craftsmanship and vision. Complementary to the console’s undulating legs, this mirror presents branches that sprout from its periphery and gracefully trace the work’s perimeter, with delicate leaves harmoniously adorning the mirror’s edges. Dramatic and larger than life, these leaves are crafted with an astonishing level of detail, while an aged patina further enriches their appearance and aesthetic. In the bottom right corner of the mirror, perched on a curving branch, sits a bird with its head slightly tilted to the side, an exceedingly rare inclusion. Crafted with a keen eye for detail, the bird’s feathers are painstakingly sculpted to accurately reflect the natural world, while the bird’s feet clutch the mirror’s branch. In rendering these natural motifs with such a high level of accuracy, Lalanne further animates and invigorates the piece, instilling it with an acute dynamism.

While whimsy and wonder were at the forefront of her Lalanne’s creative process, arguably just as important to her was imbuing her works with beauty.“What matters is the form and what it inspires in me. It isn’t a success until I find it beautiful, which is a rare and instantaneous reaction,” said the artist. “It’s there or it isn’t, there is no other way.” Thus, in merging art and functionality by infusing everyday items with natural beauty, her work remains influential and admired into the present-day for its unique blend of organic forms and exquisite execution. The present works are exquisite examples of her masterful craftsmanship and offer the unique chance to own one-of-a-kind pieces from one of the most iconic and sought after designers of the present-day.