Francois laffanur

Interview with the owner of the Paris gallery, a specialist in furniture of the XX century

Passing the gallery

A photo: Alexander Draygor

Text: Marina Volkova

Magazine: N (120) 2007

Francois Laffanour (François Laffanour) is the owner of the Paris Downtown Gallery. For more than 20 years, he has been collecting, exhibiting and selling designer furniture of the 20th century, and also has been enthusiastically telling about it.

SALON: Why exactly furniture of the XX century?

 - I started to engage in design furniture of the XX century one of the first. At that time, 20 years ago, very few were aware of the significance of these things. Gradually, attitudes towards them began to change, and now such furniture already has its own circle of admirers. Things similar to those exhibited in my gallery reflect the new perception of the subject of art that appeared after World War II: it ceases to be just something beautiful, the function begins to prevail. Pure forms and a non-standard approach to the use of materials is exactly what was needed in the conditions of a new lifestyle.

S: How does this furniture compare to the modern interior?

 - It is collected as those who are focused on contemporary art, as well as collectors who are passionate about classic antiques. In addition to the aesthetic component, this furniture is also good because it can be used for its intended purpose - sitting on it, lying, etc. It fits perfectly into a modern interior, because they have similar tasks - to create a comfortable for life and laconic space by means of expression.

S: What tips on the selection of this furniture you could give?

 - I think you need to choose those things that reflect the spirit of the time. What can be considered really significant. Bold forms, natural materials - this is what you should pay attention to.

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