Exquisite Art Nouveau Glass: The Francis Meyer Collection Unveiled in Paris
Sotheby’s is delighted to announce the unveiling of the prestigious Francis Meyer collection, one of the largest private European collections of Art Nouveau glassware. The exhibition will take place from Thursday, October 3, 2024, to Monday, October 7, 2024, at Sotheby’s Paris, located at 76 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré, 75008, and will be open to visitors from Monday to Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
The collection, carefully curated by the passionate collector Francis Meyer, features over 200 rare pieces, including signature works by Émile Gallé and Daum, who are among the most celebrated masters of glass artistry.
This unique exhibition invites art enthusiasts and collectors to immerse themselves in the rich artistic and technical universe of these exceptional creators, offering a deep dive into the history and craftsmanship that define the Art Nouveau movement. Beyond the visual splendor of the pieces on display, the event serves as a celebration of French artistry and timeless elegance, values that are synonymous with the luxurious allure of Paris. It is a must-visit for those with an appreciation for the decorative arts or for individuals seeking inspiration in the city’s refined atmosphere.
The Francis Meyer collection at Sotheby’s is more than just an exhibition—it is an invitation to explore the elegant and cosmopolitan spirit of Paris through the lens of exceptional glassmaking.
Sotheby’s is delighted to present the extraordinary collection of Francis Meyer, one of the largest private European collections of Art Nouveau glassware. This exclusive exhibition features over 200 rare and meticulously curated pieces, including signature works by Émile Gallé and Daum—renowned masters of glass artistry.
The Francis Meyer collection, assembled with a passion for beauty and precision, invites visitors to explore the artistic and technical mastery of these legendary creators. This special event, set in the heart of Paris, offers a rare opportunity to immerse oneself in the world of Art Nouveau, where the elegance of craftsmanship and innovative design converge. Each piece on display exemplifies the spirit of French savoir-faire and the timeless allure that continues to define Paris as a global center of luxury.
Beyond the stunning visual experience, this exhibition stands as a tribute to the rich heritage of French decorative arts. It highlights the enduring influence of Art Nouveau and the lasting legacy of these remarkable glassmakers. Whether you are a seasoned art collector or an admirer of Parisian elegance seeking inspiration for your next investment, the Meyer collection offers an unforgettable journey into the refined and cosmopolitan essence of the French capital.
To see the list of pieces to be sold this week click the following link:
https://www.sothebys.com/en/buy/auction/2024/collection-francis-meyer-lame-du-verre
UPDATE 12 OCTOBER 2024
Sotheby’s Paris recently showcased the renowned Art Nouveau glass collection of Swiss collector Francis Meyer, achieving an impressive total of €2,824,920 in sales. The collection, meticulously assembled over fifteen years, includes 228 pieces that highlight the artistry of Émile Gallé and the Daum brothers, offering a deep exploration into the peak of Art Nouveau glass craftsmanship.
Cécile Tajan, Head of Sale Design at Sotheby’s, praised Meyer’s dedication, stating, “Francis Meyer was a passionate collector, assembling one of the finest privately-owned collections of 1900s glassware in Europe. It was a privilege to introduce collectors to this universe, featuring the most illustrious names in Art Nouveau glassmaking.”
The auction featured several significant sales, with two pieces (lots 34 and 69) being acquired by the Musée d’Orsay, and another (lot 57) finding a new home at the Musée de l’École de Nancy, highlighting the collection’s cultural importance. Among the auction’s highlights was Émile Gallé’s Coupe Conque à la Libellule (lot 3), crafted around 1884–1889, which sold for €49,200—double its initial estimate. Another standout, Gallé’s Vase Hippocampe (lot 56), commanded a remarkable €148,000, over six times its original estimate.