Curated by Jacquemus: iconic Lalanne sculptures take center stage at Christie’s auction

Christie’s is set to host a outstanding auction titled “François-Xavier Lalanne Sculpteur: Collection Dorothée Lalanne”, offering an impressive collection of works by the famous french sculptor François-Xavier Lalanne (1927-2008). This exclusive sale, sourced from the collection of his daughter, Dorothée Lalanne, will take place on October 10, following a public exhibition running from October 4 to 10 at Christie’s Rockefeller Center in New York. Adding a unique flair to the event, fashion designer Simon Porte Jacquemus has been invited to curate the exhibition, bringing his distinct vision to showcase these exceptional pieces.

Dorothée Lalanne expressed her excitement about the collaboration, stating: «It’s a joy to work with Christie’s to share my father’s works. His artistic approach may have appeared lighthearted, but it was deeply thoughtful, precise, and always elegant, with a playful touch.

Simon Porte Jacquemus is the perfect choice to curate this exhibition. His work exudes joy and creativity in a world that often feels uninspiring. Simon has always appreciated sculpture, and his perspective is ideal to remind us of the surprising and vital nature of my father’s creations.»

Christie’s International Head of Design, Alex Heminway, emphasized the significance of this event: “It is an immense privilege to bring Dorothée Lalanne’s collection to auction in the first-ever solo sale dedicated to her father. François-Xavier Lalanne remains one of the most cherished sculptors of the post-war era, celebrated for his imaginative and refined pieces. The artist’s market has been particularly dynamic, highlighted by the record-breaking sale of his Rhinocrétaire I (1964) last year for over $19.4 million.”

This auction, which includes 70 lots, will spotlight some of Lalanne’s most iconic works, such as Le Très Grand Ours (2009), estimated at $2-3 million, and Lapin À Vent De Tourtour (2002), valued at $1-1.5 million. Both pieces have been featured in prominent exhibitions like Les Lalanne à Trianon at the Château de Versailles. Additionally, Oiseleur II (2003), making its debut at auction, further exemplifies Lalanne’s whimsical yet masterful ability to blend art and functional design, embodying his legacy of zoomorphic sculptures that blur the line between fantasy and reality.

The exhibition is free and open to the public from October 4 to October 10 at Christie’s Rockefeller Plaza in New York City, offering art lovers a chance to experience the enchanting world of François-Xavier Lalanne.