FAVARDIN, Patrick

[335] pp.

Norma Editions

2002

12 1/2″ x 9 1/2″

The revival of the decorative arts in post-war France was extremely diverse, from the 40’s style, which endured through official commissions, to classical or neoclassical furniture, which was an unprecedented success. Modernity remains a fight to be waged after the failure of the Union of Modern Artists (UAM), which has not been able to convince. This challenge is taken up by the young generation of decorators presented in this book. Their approach responds to the needs and aspirations of a country in the midst of reconstruction, with the extraordinary vitality that characterizes the time. After an introduction that emphasizes the combination of aesthetics, fantasy and rigour of this abundant French creation, this book is organized into four parts, each preceded by an introduction that defines the historical context.

-the masters of the interwar period, such as Adnet, Arbus or Old.

-the representatives of a 50’s style in freedom, playful and freed from any discourse in “ism”, Matgot, Royre…

-the great figures of the Reconstruction Gascoin, Hitier or Sognot who passed on to the next generation the sense of a demanding and purist modernity.

– their spiritual sons, Gautier-Delaye, Guariche, Motte, Paulin or Philippon and Lecoq.

In addition to these thirty-three monographs, Patrick Favardin analyses the establishment of publishing and distribution structures, with manufacturers such as Airborne, Les Huchers-Minvielle or Steiner, galleries such as Steph Simono or MAI or the Salons.