Jean-Emile Puiforcat (1897-1945) was a French silversmith, sculptor, and designer who is considered one of the most important Art Deco silversmiths. His father, Louis-Victor Puiforcat, was a prominent silversmith, and his grandfather, Emile Puiforcat, had founded the family's silverware business in 1820. Jean-Emile Puiforcat was born in Paris in 1897 and began his apprenticeship as a silversmith at the age of 14. After completing his apprenticeship, he worked for several other silversmiths before opening his own workshop in 1921.
Puiforcat's work was characterized by its clean lines, simple forms, and use of geometric shapes. He was also known for his use of innovative materials, such as platinum and stainless steel. Puiforcat's designs were highly influential, and his work is still highly sought-after today. Some of Puiforcat's most famous pieces include the Épigramme tea service, the Étoiles fruit bowl, and the Émeraude
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vase. These pieces are all characterized by their simplicity, elegance, and use of geometric shapes. Puiforcat's work was also highly influential on other designers, such as René Lalique and Jean Dunand.
Puiforcat was a member of the Union des Artistes Modernes (UAM), a group of French artists and designers who were dedicated to creating modern and innovative design. The UAM was highly influential in the development of Art Deco style. Puiforcat's work was exhibited at many major exhibitions throughout his career, including the Exposition Internationale des Arts Décoratifs et Industriels Modernes in Paris in 1925. His work is also included in the collections of many major museums, such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York City and the Louvre Museum in Paris.
In addition to his work as a silversmith, Puiforcat was also a sculptor and designer. He created a number of sculptures in bronze and stone, as well as a variety of other objects, such as lamps and clocks. Puiforcat's work was always characterized by its simplicity, elegance, and use of geometric shapes.
Puiforcat died in Paris in 1945 at the age of 48. His work continues to be admired for its beauty, simplicity, and innovation.
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