Lalanne's language was rooted in wild world of animals, which he transformed into surrealist sculptures and imaginative functional objects. Creating a romantic animal kingdom of his own, he turned rhinos into dreamlike writing desks; sheep into whimsical chairs; birds into playful lamps; and monkeys into magical tables. "The animal world," he used to say, "constitutes the richest and most varied forms on the planet."
Decorator Brian McCarthy, a long time collector of Les Lalanne, worked closely with Claude on special commissions. Now, he curates and designs an exhibition at Kasmin Gallery, where I visited him to learn the secrets of collecting Lalanne. All images courtesy Kasmin Gallery.
This series was made possible thanks to Rago Auctions/Wright Auction House, Experts in selling Fine Art, Design, Ceramics, and Glass at Auction.
The Collector, Fall 2020
Collecting Francois-Xavier Lalanne
With Brian McCarthy
At Kasmin Gallery, New York
Supported by Rago/Wright, Specializing in the sale of Fine Art, Design, Ceramics, and Glass at Auction.
Creator & Executive Director: Daniella Ohad
Producers: Daniella Ohad and Howard Silver
Director of Photography: Scott Sinkles
Music: Arthur Hernandez
Editor: Howard Silver
Hair Stylist: Kara Giargia
Makeup: Charivari & Co