DRESDEN.- Jean-Pierre Latz (1691–1754), born in the Electorate of Cologne, is widely regarded as one of the most important cabinetmakers of his time. As the culmination of an extensive research and restoration project, the Kunstgewerbemuseum of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden (SKD) is hosting the world’s first special exhibition dedicated solely to Latz and his work. For the first time since World War II, his exquisite furniture pieces are being displayed in the Parade Rooms of Dresden’s Residence Palace, which have been specially transformed for the exhibition, Fait à Paris: The Art Furniture of Jean-Pierre Latz at the Dresden Court (October 19, 2024—February 2, 2025). This marks another significant step toward restoring the palace's grand festive floor to its former glory.
Latz’s Masterpieces: Baroque Meets Rococo
Jean-Pierre Latz, working in Paris, created highly complex masterpieces that blended the strict symmetry of Baroque with the lightness and asymmetry of Rococo. His works, including clocks and pedestals, were often made in series of up to four identical pieces. Latz’s furniture is renowned for its luxurious inlays—known as Boulle marquetry—using materials such as tortoiseshell, brass, ebony, mother-of-pearl, and exotic woods, combined with lavish gilded bronze mounts. Dresden boasts the largest collection of Latz’s work, acquired in the latter half of the 18th century. The collection is notable for its extensive documentation and preservation in its original state, making it a unique treasure.
The French creations of Latz were directly imported to the Saxon court as symbols of status by Augustus III, son of Augustus the Strong, and his prime minister Heinrich Count von Brühl. These opulent pieces remained at the court until the 20th century, even inspiring local craftsmen, such as court cabinetmaker Johann August Türpe. During World War II, several pieces were removed from Dresden for safekeeping, sustaining damage, while others, including the famous palm trunk clocks, were severely damaged during the bombing of Dresden. For decades, these works were believed to be lost or were stored in poor condition in the museum’s depots, fading into obscurity.
Rediscovering Latz Through Research and Restoration
It wasn’t until the introduction of the museum’s database, Daphne, in 2008, that these forgotten treasures were rediscovered. Alongside the reconstruction of the Parade Rooms, the Kunstgewerbemuseum initiated an international, interdisciplinary research and restoration project focused on 30 individual objects and 20 ensembles by Latz. These included grand clocks with their pedestals, a cartonnier, and a commode. During the restoration process, experts found handwritten signatures reading Fait à Paris inside two clock pedestals. These inscriptions, which give the exhibition its name, underscore the importance of these French luxury items at European courts.
A Unique Viewing Experience in the Parade Rooms
The exhibition offers visitors an in-depth look at the furniture of Jean-Pierre Latz, made possible through extensive art historical and scientific-technical research. Interactive film animations, created by the Dresden University of Applied Sciences, deconstruct Latz’s creations virtually, revealing the intricate craftsmanship behind his work. The pieces' journey—from their creation to their deterioration and eventual restoration—unfolds alongside the original objects themselves. The exhibition also delves into Latz’s life, highlighting his role as an artist, entrepreneur, and key figure in the diplomatic, dynastic, and economic networks of his time. Loans from Rome, Potsdam, and Dresden further enrich the exhibition, providing additional context and showcasing Latz’s stylistic versatility.
International Collaboration and Future Scholarship
A conference on Fait à Paris, led by the Kunstgewerbemuseum, will take place from November 17 to 19, 2024. In addition, a final publication summarizing the project’s findings is scheduled for release in spring 2025.
François Delattre, France’s ambassador to Germany, praised the exhibition, stating, “Art has never known boundaries. Art always tells a story—our story. Fait à Paris offers a fascinating insight into the Franco-Saxon exchange of craftsmanship and culture at the Dresden court. The exhibition of Jean-Pierre Latz’s works, one of the foremost Parisian cabinetmakers of the first half of the 18th century, brings to life the rich history of the past three centuries.”
A Triumph for Dresden’s Museum Community
Marion Ackermann, Director General of the Staatliche Kunstsammlungen Dresden, emphasized the importance of this event: “Fait à Paris is a special premiere, as it is the first time the Parade Rooms at the Residence Palace have been used for a special exhibition. This exhibition is a testament to the enduring cultural exchange between Germany and France, which was so vital in Latz’s time and remains so today.”
Thomas A. Geisler, Director of the Kunstgewerbemuseum, highlighted the significance of Latz’s rediscovery: “With Fait à Paris, we offer visitors a unique opportunity to view Jean-Pierre Latz’s extraordinary furniture collection in a new light. The creation of these masterpieces required immense time, skill, and resources, as did their restoration. We are deeply grateful for the dedication of all those involved in this project, whose enthusiasm has helped restore the lasting brilliance of Latz’s work.”
After nearly 80 years, the opulent creations of Jean-Pierre Latz have returned to their historical home at Dresden’s Residence Palace, where they continue to captivate and inspire.
