Works by François-Xavier Lalanne at Sotheby's
François-Xavier Lalanne Biography
Born in Agen in 1927, François-Xavier Lalanne initially pursued painting after the war, studying at the Julian Academy in Paris. His artistic trajectory changed dramatically in 1952 when he met Claude Dupeux at his first exhibition at the Cimaise Gallery—she would become both his wife and creative partner. This encounter marked his departure from painting as he embarked on a collaborative artistic journey with Claude.
The couple's first joint exhibition, "Zoophite," opened at the Galerie J in 1964, unveiling their distinctive hybrid creations that blurred the boundaries between sculpture and functional objects. Two years later, they formally united under the collective identity "Les Lalanne." While each artist maintained their individual practice, they shared a fantastical universe inspired by flora and fauna, frequently exhibiting as a duo.
François-Xavier cultivated an enchanting bestiary featuring monkeys, rhinoceroses, donkeys, camels, toads, hippos, and cats. Among these creatures, sheep held particular significance—appearing alone or in flocks, with or without heads, covered in fleece or left bare, these sculptures doubled as functional seating. This playful functionality embodied his shared philosophy with Claude: to democratize sculpture by infusing it with familiar, accessible dimensions.
His artistic vision extended to public commissions throughout France and internationally. Notable installations include his "Pigeons" in Grande-Borne, Grigny, a "Polymorphous Rabbit" at a Tourcoing high school, and the monumental fountain "Les Pleureuses" (The Mourners) at Japan's Hakone Open-Air Museum.
Recognition came swiftly to François-Xavier Lalanne. In 1968, he received the Knight of Arts and Letters distinction. His works attracted prestigious collectors including Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé, the Rothschilds, and the Noailles family. The Lalanne partnership achieved global recognition, with their pieces displayed in galleries and museums worldwide. The 2010 retrospective at the Musée des Arts Décoratifs stands as one of the duo's final major exhibitions. After a distinguished career, François-Xavier Lalanne passed away in 2008 in Ury, leaving behind a legacy that transformed the relationship between art and everyday life.
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