Art Deco Masterpieces presents an unprecedented rare opportunity to see such an extensive collection of Art Deco masterpieces in one exhibition. Furniture especially by Ruhlmann and Frank are still much sought after by collectors, thus is rarely seen together in one space in such a great number, not only in Asia but also around the world. The furniture and interior pieces presented in the exhibition recreate the lifestyles of the most privileged and the political and cultural complexities of 1920s and 30s under a collective style now known to us as Art Deco.
Kukje Gallery presents Art Deco Masterpieces, introducing an extensive collection of key furniture and interior pieces by the most prominent designers of Art Deco for the first time in Korea. Centered in France, Art Deco was an international art design movement of 1920s and 30s. Its style was the culmination of high-end modern luxury in Paris. Its elegant, glamorous yet functional and modern style spread quickly to the rest of the Europe and the United States. Art Deco affected all areas of art, from architecture, interior design to paintings and even film and could be seen as the precursor of modernism.
The furniture and interior pieces introduced in this exhibition embody the epitome of the world-renowned, leading figures of Art Deco at its peak. One of the most acclaimed furniture and interior designer of Art Deco is Emile-Jacques Ruhlmann, presented in this exhibition. Made from the most exotic and rare wood to the highest possible standard, his secretaire suggests great refinement of taste and superior craftsmanship. It’s simple, elegant and dignified design is typical of Ruhlmann. Jean-Michel Frank’s parchment cabinet equally evokes a sense of exquisitely well-balanced modern luxury. Frank’s exuberant yet simple designs reveal impeccably embellished surfaces made of exotic, rare and unexpected materials such as parchment, shagreen(shark skin) and even straw. Similarly, Eugene Printz and Dominique’s furniture and interior designs recreate the opulent lifestyles of the Art Deco patrons who could pursue such luxury at the time of war.
Celebrated for his immaculate lacquer work, Jean Dunand’s vases are also showcased in this exhibition. Like his contemporaries, Dunand was committed to exploring exotic and avant-garde materials and superior craftsmanship.
Paired with Art Deco furniture, interior designs are Giacometti brother’s sculptural tables and lamps. Their work resists easy categorization. However, their work represents a fine balance between art and design, emotional expression and functional aesthetic.
