Maison & Objet, Paris Deco Off, and more… The design season is in full swing in Paris, and we are thrilled to once again showcase an exceptional array of collectible designs in our Gallery on Rive Gauche and at Féau Boiseries—exceptionally open for the event. As we build bridges between the Arts Décoratifs tradition and contemporary design talent, we continue to celebrate the new French aesthetic that has become Invisible Collection’s signature. While strengthening our bond with Mobilier National by presenting their new acquisitions, we’re also unveiling exciting new collaborations, such as a capsule collection from Beni Rugs, while continuing cherished partnerships, including Dedar dressing some of our most iconic pieces. Before delving into the list of designs on show, in a setting curated by the talented Biehler & Graveleine, some congratulations to the Féau family are in order as they celebrate the 150th anniversary of their revered maison. For this special occasion, Angélique and Guillaume Féau have granted access to one of their hidden treasures: a complete panel scheme and doors in straw marquetry designed by Jean-Michel Frank in the late 1920s for the home of Winnaretta Singer, heiress to the sewing machine empire, Princesse de Polignac. The American patron of the arts and friend of great musicians and composers of the early 20th century commissioned Frank to decorate her villa just outside Paris. These rare and spectacular panels were designed for the music room on the house’s first floor, their splendid aura intact: never has a century-old decorative element looked more contemporary!
The exhibition marks the unveiling of new designs by Ashiesh Shah. The Mumbai-based architect and interior designer shares with us a deep passion for and understanding of savoir-faire—or karigari in Urdu—and the cultural value attached to it. Traveling extensively to the farthest regions of India, he seeks out the best artisans for each specialty, from metalwork to woodcarving and weaving. In his work, we can easily see how each piece reveals its handmade quality, with lovely small irregularities. We also detect a spiritual vein running through it, with references to spirituality and cosmogony: think spherical, round shapes; infinite loops; or pieces that can be stacked or assembled in a continuum, with no end or beginning. Highlights include the beautiful Channapatna N2 chair, the Atman Lamp, the Naga Sofa—a minimalist structure featuring a coat in woven elephant grass—and the Garbhagriha mirror, a spherical design as a metaphor for the cosmos.
Last but certainly not least, we are delighted once again to present the latest acquisitions from Mobilier National’s collections. These pieces, part of their Campagne d’acquisition—the acquisition campaign aimed at seeking out new talents—embody the vibrant French design scene where creativity and craftsmanship merge seamlessly. From Alice Gavalet’s stunning ceramic tables adorned with tartan motifs to Elliot Barne’s bench inspired by the pursuit of the perfect wave, and Sophie Dries’ new iteration of the Nogyie Table, these limited-edition pieces have already earned a place in the institution’s holdings, alongside works by Jean Royère and Pierre Paulin.
