Decorators of the 50s

The revival of decorative arts in post-war France was extremely diverse, from the 1940s style which persisted through official orders through to classical or neoclassical furniture whose success was unprecedented. Modernity remained a fight to be fought after the failure of the Union of Modern Artists (UAM) which failed to convince. This challenge was taken up by the young generation of decorators presented in this work. Their approach responded to the needs and aspirations of a country in full reconstruction, with the extraordinary vitality that characterizes the era. After an introduction which emphasizes the alliance of aesthetics, fantasy and rigor in this abundant French creation, this book is organized into four parts, each preceded by an introduction which defines the historical context.
-the masters of the interwar period, such as Adnet, Arbus or Old.
-the representatives of a 50s style in freedom, playful and freed from any discourse in "ism", for example Matégot or Royère.
-the great figures of Reconstruction – Gascoin, Hitier or Sognot – who transmitted to the following 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 analyzes the establishment of a publishing and distribution structure, with manufacturers like Airborne, Les Huchers-Minvielle or Steiner, galleries like Steph Simono or MAI or even the Salons.

• 23 x 30.5 cm • 352 pages • 450 illustrations • Hardcover under dust jacket • ISBN: 978-2-37666-0002

Text in French only