François-Xavier Lalanne was a French sculptor who, together with his wife Claude, founded a studio in Ury, France in the 1960s. They forged one of the most prolific art partnerships of their generation, and became known as ‘Les Lalanne.’ Their unique vision and original decorative expression attracted sophisticated Parisians, creatives, and a cult of followers, captivated by the unparalleled craftsmanship, fantasy, elegance, and humor. Since the year 2000, the scope of admirers and collectors has expanded and become more global than ever before.
Lalanne’s language was rooted in wild world of animals, which he transformed into surrealist sculptures and imaginative functional objects. Creating a romantic animal kingdom of his own, he turned rhinos into dreamlike writing desks; sheep into whimsical chairs; birds into playful lamps; and monkeys into magical tables. “The animal world,” he used to say, “constitutes the richest and most varied forms on the planet.”
Decorator Brian McCarthy, a long time collector of Les Lalanne, worked closely with Claude on special commissions. Now, he curates and designs an exhibition at Kasmin Gallery, where I visited him to learn the secrets of collecting Lalanne. All images courtesy Kasmin Gallery.
Lalanne’s language was rooted in wild world of animals, which he transformed into surrealist sculptures and imaginative functional objects. Creating a romantic animal kingdom of his own, he turned rhinos into dreamlike writing desks; sheep into whimsical chairs; birds into playful lamps; and monkeys into magical tables. “The animal world,” he used to say, “constitutes the richest and most varied forms on the planet.”
Decorator Brian McCarthy, a long time collector of Les Lalanne, worked closely with Claude on special commissions. Now, he curates and designs an exhibition at Kasmin Gallery, where I visited him to learn the secrets of collecting Lalanne. All images courtesy Kasmin Gallery.
This series was made possible thanks to Rago Auctions/Wright Auction House, Experts in selling Fine Art, Design, Ceramics, and Glass at Auction.
The Collector, Fall 2020
Collecting Francois-Xavier Lalanne
With Brian McCarthy
At Kasmin Gallery, New York
Supported by Rago/Wright, Specializing in the sale of Fine Art, Design, Ceramics, and Glass at Auction.
Creator & Executive Director: Daniella Ohad
Producers: Daniella Ohad and Howard Silver
Director of Photography: Scott Sinkles
Music: Arthur Hernandez
Editor: Howard Silver
Hair Stylist: Kara Giargia
Makeup: Charivari & Co
