Exceptional Examples of Postwar French Design to Highlight Phillips’ New York Auction
Jean Royère Pair of "Boule," also known as “Ours polaire” armchairs, circa 1942 Estimate: $600,000-800,000
Sale on 11 December to Feature Designs by Jean Royère, Charlotte Perriand, and Jean Prouvé, Alongside Important Examples of Art Nouveau, Italian, Scandinavian, American, and Contemporary Furniture and Lighting
NEW YORK – This December, Phillips will host two major Design auctions in New York: a single-owner sale dedicated to Lucie Rie’s ceramics, Moved by Beauty: Works by Lucie Rie from an Important Asian Collection, and the seasonal live auction of 20th- and 21st-century design. Moved by Beauty begins at 10AM EST on December 11, followed by the Design sale at 2PM EST. Both auctions will be previewed in a public exhibition running from December 6–11 at 432 Park Avenue.
A stunning pair of "Boule" armchairs, also known as "Ours polaire," by Jean Royère, is set to headline the upcoming Design sale. These iconic pieces, drawn from a private collection, embody the pinnacle of 20th-century blue-chip design with their signature curves and luxurious forms that define Royère's timeless aesthetic. Introduced in 1942 at the Salon des Artistes Décorateurs—where Royère famously designed an entire living room around the form—the "Boule" quickly became a cornerstone of his oeuvre, appearing in many of his later interiors. The pair of armchairs on offer achieved $482,500 at Phillips in 2009, far surpassing its $200,000–250,000 estimate. Now, fifteen years later, with an estimated value of $600,000–800,000, they reflect the remarkable ascent of Royère’s market.
Additional highlights of Postwar French design in the sale include exceptional works by Charlotte Perriand, Jean Prouvé, Georges Jouve, and Serge Mouille, all sourced from a prominent American private collection (lots 101–121). Leading the group is Charlotte Perriand’s iconic “En Forme” sideboard, estimated at $300,000–500,000.
This curated, single-owner section also features outstanding contemporary and Latin American designs. Additionally, modern and contemporary artworks from the same collection will be showcased in Phillips’ December Modern & Contemporary Art online auction, running from December 2–12. These artworks will be on view at the 432 Park Avenue galleries during the Design pre-sale exhibition.
Another standout feature of the December Design sale is a remarkable selection of Art Nouveau furniture and lighting from a prestigious private collection. Leading this group is an extraordinary 1905 dining suite and ceiling light by Eugène Vallin, a master of the École de Nancy movement. Commissioned by Éléonore Corbin Mauljean, the suite includes a dining table with 12 chairs, a grand sideboard, two servers, and a cabinet, complemented by a bronze and glass chandelier offered as a separate lot.
This suite exemplifies Vallin’s visionary approach to furniture as living art, with flowing, organic forms inspired by local flora. Created during the height of Vallin’s expressive period, the pieces reflect his unparalleled craftsmanship and the artistic ideals of France’s Art Nouveau movement. This rare ensemble underscores Vallin’s pivotal role in shaping the legacy of the École de Nancy.
Auction: 11 December 2024
Auction viewing: 6-11 December 2024
Location: 432 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10022
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Phillips: where the world’s curious and bold connect with the art, design, and luxury that inspires them. As a leading global platform for buying and selling 20th and 21st century works, Phillips offers dedicated expertise in the areas of Modern and Contemporary Art, Design, Photographs, Editions, Watches, and Jewels. Auctions and exhibitions are primarily held in New York, London, Geneva, and Hong Kong, with representative offices based throughout Europe, the United States, and Asia. Phillips offers a regular selection of live and online auctions, along with items available for immediate purchase. Phillips also offers a range of services and advice on all aspects of collecting, including private sales and assistance with appraising.
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