Jean DUNAND (1877-1942) - Lot 121

Jean DUNAND (1877-1942) "Pigeon", circa 1924. Metal plate with rectangular view, decorated in black, red and gold lacquer with pink-tinted eggshell inlays with a pigeon profile on a radiating motif background. No signature. H_35 cm L_25 cm The lacquer is missing in the lower part (under the frame). History : Probably based on the binding plate designed by Jean Dunand and François-Louis Schmied for the publication of the Song of Songs translated by Ernest Renan (1925). This motif was itself inspired by a cardboard design by Gustave Miklos depicting three pigeons. Bibliography: Félix & Amélie Marcilhac, Jean Dunand, Éditions Norma, Paris, 2020, model for the binding plate referenced under no. 21 and reproduced on p. 231, and decoration partly repeated for panels referenced 14 and 15 and reproduced on p. 243. Expert : Cabinet Marcilhac Jean Dunand (1877-1942) was a leading Swiss and French artist, known for his contributions to the Art Deco movement. A multi-faceted creator, he excelled as a painter, sculptor, metal craftsman and interior designer. His work is characterized by complex patterns and the use of materials such as lacquer and eggshell, highlighting his talent in the decorative arts. Dunand's art extends to a variety of forms, including panels and vases. Our piece is remarkable in every way, particularly the use of lacquered wood inlaid with eggshell, demonstrating his mastery of materials. His legacy continues to be celebrated in the art world, particularly for his unique contributions to the Art Deco style.