Jean Dunand: Master of Art Deco

Jean Dunand was a multidisciplinary artist who excelled as a sculptor, dinandier (metalworker), lacquerer, mosaicist, silversmith, and interior architect. Initially trained in sculpture, he turned towards decorative arts and dinanderie (metalworking) in 1905. He gained significant success with his hammered copper and brass pieces, establishing his name in the field of decorative arts.

Key Achievements and Techniques

Lacquer Work: In 1912, Dunand apprenticed with Japanese master lacquerer Seizo Sugawara (1884-1937). Through Dunand, lacquer work experienced a revival in 20th-century decorative arts, becoming a hallmark of the Art Deco style. Lacquer became his favored material, used to decorate screens, panels, vases, furniture, and portraits.

Post-War Success: Dunand's lacquer works with stylized geometric designs were highly sought after. Decorators like Eugène Printz and Ruhlmann commissioned him for lacquer finishes on their furniture. In 1931, he created 10 panels to decorate the library of the Palais de la Porte Dorée.

Ship Interiors: He was renowned for his interior decoration work on the luxury liners L'Atlantique and Normandie.

Notable Works

Jean Dunand was one of the most renowned Art Deco creators, producing and decorating numerous items such as vases, trays, incense burners, boxes, screens, coffee tables, decorative panels, and jewelry. His geometric motifs were favored by haute couture houses like Worth, Elsa Schiaparelli, Madeleine Vionnet, and Jeanne Lanvin.

Legacy and Market Presence

Jean Dunand's works are highly sought after by collectors and frequently appear in auctions at the Aguttes auction house. His contributions to the Art Deco movement have left a lasting legacy in the world of decorative arts.

Expertise and Appraisal

Our specialists are experienced and available to conduct appraisals of iconic pieces from the 20th-century decorative arts and design. They offer free and confidential estimates by appointment. Please feel free to contact us to discuss the purchase or sale of a piece by Jean Dunand or other artists in this discipline.

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