The top 10 Mid-Century Modern brands for collectors
Beyond the heavyweight modernists such as Le Corbusier, Eames and Breuer there are many mid-century designers who created equally desirable homewares and objects. Pieces such as Manetti pineapples, Rougier lamps and Maison Charles wall appliques are modern classics that have made a significant contribution to design.
1. Mauro Manetti
Mauro Manetti is a name synonymous with Italian design. Manetti creates shimmering functional objects such as ice buckets in the shape of pineapples, melons, ducks and swans. They are intricately detailed and of the highest quality. Pieces such as this are essential for any bar cart and make a very special gift.
Manetti pieces can be identified by the maker's mark reading M\M Made in Italy.
2. Michel Dartois
Dartois creates pieces with the same esprit as Manetti. Life-size pineapple ice buckets are a collector's item.
Dartois pieces can be identified by the maker's mark reading Michel Dartois, Paris.
3. Henri Fernandez
Organic, large-scale insects and plant life are the theme of Fernandez's unique pieces. The workmanship is exquisite with a mixture of bronze, brass, agate and mother of pearl. In many cases coffee tables and wall art are illuminated to showcase the quality of the natural elements.
Works are usually signed and dated by the artist.
4. Isabelle and Richard Faure
Isabelle and Richard Faure were a 1970's duo who created sculptural pieces for modern interiors. Whimsical, dramatic and otherworldly, their works play with scale and are a beautiful interpretation of natural curiosities.
Works by Faure are often signed discreetly.
5. Liane Rougier
Liane Rougier is a Canadian artist who created incredible lighting using predominantly perspex. Elegant, pearly and opaque - her signature style is one that is embraced by collectors internationally.
6. Maison Bagues
Maison Bagues is a brand that still exists today. Since 1860 they have been creating luxurious lighting in the heart of Paris. Sublime chandeliers and wall sconces are adorned with leaves, bull rushes and birds. Occasional tables are usually framed with bronze faux bamboo with marble and glass shelves.
Maison Bagues pieces are never signed as many artisans work in their atelier.
7. Maison Charles
Maison Charles - interior jewelry. This is how the creators of the luxury brand describe their creations. The brand was created in 1908, and by the 1960's the Charles Style had emerged. They blend "classicism, precision, and contemporary touches" that drive their unique design approach to lighting and decor.
Maison Charles pieces are never signed as many artisans work in their atelier.
8. Maison Jansen
Maison Jansen was the first true global interior design firm, based in Paris and established in the late 19th century - they designed many rooms in The White House during the 1960's. Their great respect and use of antiques informed their bold designs. Famed for life-size palm tree lamps, sleek framed glass coffee tables and modern chandeliers.
Maison Jansen pieces are never signed as many artisans work in their atelier.
9. Mathias Fondica
Fondica made functional sculptures. Vases, vide poches and containers in opulent and weighty gilded bronze are treasured by collectors of this luxurious brand.
Their works can be identified by a Fondica maker's mark and quite often the artist.
10. Robert Picault
Celebrated ceramist Robert Picault created colourful ceramic works in a studio he shared with Picasso in the 1950's in the Mediterranean village of Vallauris. A book has recently been published about the friendship between the artists.
Robert Picault pieces can be identified by the artist's signature RP or Picault.
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