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Mid-Century 1974 Vintage Michel Boyer Brasilia Chandelier

About the Item

Michel Boyer was born in 1935 in Paris, France, surrounded by a rich tradition of craftsmen and architects. He first delved into the world of design at the prestigious school of Beaux Arts in Paris, followed by further studies at l'École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs under the guidance of the renowned decorator André Arbus. In 1960, Boyer paired with architect Pierre Dufau, specializing in office buildings, offices, and banks. This collaboration laid the foundation for Boyer's future success. His breakthrough came in 1965 when he took charge of the interior design of the reconstructed Rothschild Bank on Rue Lafitte in Paris. Boyer's talents attracted a distinguished clientele, including fashion houses such as Dior, Lanvin, and Balmain. He also undertook prestigious architectural projects like the Hotel PLM St. Jacques in 1972 and the French embassies in Brasilia (1975) and Washington (1981). Boyer's furniture designs epitomised the modern era, employing materials like stainless steel, aluminum, and fiberglass. His pieces, characterised by structured forms and a harmonious interplay of space, became iconic symbols of 1970s French style. Michel Boyer's legacy endures as one of the last great interior designers committed to the principles of modern design. His innovative approach and dedication to craftsmanship continue to inspire designers worldwide, leaving an indelible mark on the world of interior design. Starting from the 1960s, the decoration of French embassies underwent a profound transformation. Influenced by American, Scandinavian, and Italian design, which challenged traditional French aesthetics, a new era of expression emerged, finding its stage in public and official buildings worldwide. This shift towards contemporary design was particularly evident in the construction of diplomatic complexes in growing capitals like Brasilia, Moscow, Washington, New Delhi, and finally Berlin. It wasn't until the mid-1970s that the Quai d'Orsay, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, relocated its embassy from Rio de Janeiro to Brasilia. The task of designing the diplomatic complex was entrusted to Guillermo Jullian de la Fuente, a disciple of the iconic Le Corbusier. Among the designers tasked with furnishing the embassy's interiors was Michel Boyer, whose keen eye for detail and dedication to harmony would leave an indelible mark in the space. Boyer was called upon in 1975 to adorn the interiors of the embassy, a venture that not only marked a milestone in his professional career but also served as a testament to the enduring global prominence of French design. His approach to design was characterized by a synthesis of clean lines, geometric forms, and a nuanced interplay of materials, seamlessly complementing the architectural vision of the embassy. Central to Boyer's vision was the creation of a space that seamlessly integrated with the embassy's architectural aesthetic, a space where form and function converged in perfect harmony. At the heart of this endeavor stood the Brasilia Chandelier, a luminous masterpiece that transcended its functional purpose to become a symbol of elegance and sophistication. Crafted from different materials, like metal, Perspex (transparent acrylic plastic), and fabric, the Brasilia Chandelier radiated an ethereal glow, casting intricate shadows that danced across the embassy's grand salon. The chandelier embodied Boyer's commitment to balance and proportion. Its geometric silhouette, softened by rounded edges, spoke to Boyer's meticulous attention to detail, while its monumental presence commanded attention without overwhelming the space. The Brasilia Chandelier was more than just a lighting fixture; it was a homage to Oscar Niemeyer, whose iconic parliament towers punctuated the Brasilia skyline. Through subtle design cues and meticulous craftsmanship, Boyer paid homage to Niemeyer's visionary contributions, infusing the chandelier with a sense of admiration for Brazilian modernism. As guests gathered beneath its luminous glow, the Brasilia Chandelier became a symbol of Franco-Brazilian friendship and cultural exchange. It illuminated not only the room but also the shared values and aspirations of two nations, bridging the realms of architecture and design in a harmonious tribute. In the enchanting setting of the French Embassy in Brasilia, where innovation and tradition converged, the Brasilia Chandelier stood as a testament to the enduring dialogue between France and Brazil, a testament to the power of design to transcend boundaries and forge connections that spanned continents.
  • Creator:
    Michel Boyer (Designer)
  • Dimensions:
    Height: 59.06 in (150 cm)Width: 40.56 in (103 cm)Depth: 40.56 in (103 cm)
  • Power Source:
    Hardwired
  • Lampshade:
    Included
  • Materials and Techniques:
  • Period:
  • Date of Manufacture:
    1974
  • Condition:
    Repaired: Fabric repairs. Rewired: The electrical components were changed and updated to meet the current EU standards while preserving the original design. Wear consistent with age and use.
  • Seller Location:
    London, GB
  • Reference Number:
    Seller: VINT/FRNT/MBO/CLAMP-BRASILIA/OM/011stDibs: LU10041244812422

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