PARIS.- Christie's presented its sale Design, 1925-2025 la modernité en héritage celebrating 100 years of creativity and innovation. From the Art Deco spirit to contemporary lines, this journey through the cent-ury highlighted major figures in design and the breakthroughs that defined their era.
The Design sale was a resounding success, totaling €17,758,928, more than doubling its estimate, with 92% of lots sold and 73% selling above their high estimate.
Among the highlights, the iconic Choupatte (2013) by Claude Lalanne achieved €3,293,000, nearly five times its high estimate, after more than 10 minutes of bidding—a fitting tribute for the centenary of Lalanne's birth. Other works by the artist were highly sought after: the Miroir (2009) reached €1,646,000, and two gilt-bronze benches from 1996 (lot 27 and lot 28) each sold for €482,600.The sale also featured a remarkable group of nine mirrors by Line Vautrin from a European private collection, including Lot 63 (circa 1960), which sold for €266,700.
Two pairs of armchairs by Diego Giacometti from an Italian collection—models Pommeaux de canne and Tête de lionne—achieved €1,219,200 and €1,585,000 respectively, far exceeding their high estimates and confirming the enduring appeal of the designer's work. Two exceptional bronze lamps by his brother, Alberto Giacometti, also stood out, including the floor lamp Tête de femme, which realized €457,200.
Capucine Tamboise, Design Specialist and Head of the Sale at Christie's France: “From 1925 to 2025, modernity emerges as a golden thread—a living heritage illuminated by this sale, balancing memory of form with renewed creativity. Boldly presented, this collection resonated immediately with collectors worldwide, whose confidence and enthusiasm drove this success.”
A highlight of the sale, Christian Mattler collection belonged to an architect-engineer passionate about 1950s design and dedicated to acquiring the most emblematic pieces of the era. His discerning pursuit of modernity captivated many collectors, totaling €2,246,757. The collection included over 75 lots, featuring works by Serge Mouille, Georges Jouve, and Charlotte Perriand. Perriand's Tunisie console sold for €304,800, while two Visiteur N.350 armchairs by Jean Prouvé achieved €355,600. A surprise highlight was the Bonbonne vase by Georges Jouve, which quadrupled its high estimate, reaching €292,100.
After more than six hours of bidding, the Sculpture table by Guy de Rougemont set a world auction record for the artist at €355,600.
Christie's will continue its design auctions on December 11 in New York with 1925: A Modern Vision, featuring around forty lots in tribute to this landmark year for decorative arts.
