Mid-century furniture by Pierre Paulin (France)

Born in Paris in 1927, Paulin is widely regarded as one of the most important twentieth century furniture designers. From a young age he had an interest in arts and crafts and went on to study clay modelling and stone carving at the Ecole Camondo in Paris before commencing work at Thonet in 1954. This early exposure to art and sculpture no doubt influenced his later free-form furniture designs when he began working with Dutch furniture maker Artifort in 1958. He was given freedom of expression and through the 1960's and 70s Paulin and Artifort were at the forefront of contemporary design. The 'Mushroom' chair was hugely innovative when it was introduced in 1960 with a tubular steel frame covered with foam. In 1968 he received the commission to refurbish the Louvre and many prestigious awards and international commissions followed throughout his working life. Highlights include the seating more... design for Expo ‘70 in Osaka and redesigning the private apartments and presidential office of the Elysee Palace. less...