Christie’s Presents Paris in New York: A Private Collection of Royère, Vautrin, Jouve

Christie’s is pleased to present Paris in New York: A Private Collection of Royère, Vautrin, Jouve,  one from a suite of four Design sales this season, to be held on May 26 at Rockefeller Center, New York. An important collection assembled by two private collectors in the 1990’s, Paris in New York features more than 50 iconic works by celebrated 20^th Century French masters including Jean Royère (1902-1981)—one of the most original and innovative designers of the 20^th Century—on the 40^th anniversary of his death.

Paris in New York offers famed models by Royère including a ‘Polar Bear’ Sofa, circa 1950 (estimate $400,000-600,000) and an ‘Antibes’ Floor Lamp, circa 1950 (estimate $150,000-200,000). The auction boasts a stunning selection of talosel mirrors made by French designer and decorative artist Line Vautrin (1913-1997), including her ‘Solaire’ Mirror, circa 1950 (estimate $40,000-60,000), among others. Additional highlights include a Royère ‘Tour Eiffel’ Floor Lamp, circa 1945 (estimate $100,000-150,000) and a Pair of ‘Sculpture Armchairs’, circa 1955 (estimate $200,000-300,000), as well as a selection of ceramic works by Georges Jouve (1910-1964).

Alex Heminway, Christie’s International Head of Design said, “It’s an absolute joy to offer this in-depth, jewel of a collection on behalf of the private sellers who, with great prescience, assembled these works in the 1990’s when the great French designers represented here—Royère, Vautrin, Jouve—were in the early throes of rediscovery by the collectible ‘design’ market, itself a nascent idea, as it turned its attention to the French midcentury.”  

Entirely self-taught, Royère employed bold colors and geometric shapes in a style that appears quintessentially French with clear influence from Italian and Scandinavian designs. His work has consistently possessed global appeal as he looked abroad for inspiration and promoted his creations in the Middle East, North Africa and South America, in addition to his home footprint in France and across Europe. As a result, Royère had a great impact on the post-war design culture of those regions.

“…Removed from their original homes, Royère’s works allow for a free-flowing interpretation outside of their bespoke origins, resting comfortably within both minimal and richly layered interiors of the present. As they find new homes, Royère’s universal designs arc toward the timeless,” wrote Michael Jefferson, Christie’s Senior International Specialist, Design.

Royère experimented with a wide range of materials and took an untraditional approach to modern design, creating a distinct style that combined elegance, playfulness and comfort. His career lasted until the early 1970’s and, today, his work is as well-respected and popular as his contemporaries—collected by celebrities, royalty and design aficionados alike.

The Paris in New York preview opens by appointment May 22 in Christie’s Rockefeller Center galleries.

About Christie’s

Christie’s is a name and place that speaks of extraordinary art, unparalleled service and international expertise. Founded in 1766 by James Christie, Christie’s has conducted the greatest and most celebrated auctions through the centuries providing a popular showcase for the unique and the beautiful. Christie’s offers around 350 auctions annually in over 80 categories, including all areas of fine and decorative arts, jewellery, photographs, collectibles, wine, and more. Prices range from $200 to over $100 million. Christie’s also has a long and successful history conducting Private Sales for clients and online sales are offered year-round across all categories. Christie’s global presence is spread across a network of international salerooms and 61 representatives and offices. Christies.com provides detailed articles and videos on the objects offered for sale alongside the latest advances in digital viewing tools to make Christie’s accessible to all.

*Please note when quoting estimates above that other fees will apply in addition to the hammer price - see Section D of the Conditions of Sale at the back of the sale catalogue.

*Estimates do not include buyer’s premium. Sales totals are hammer price plus buyer’s premium and are reported net of applicable fees.