Creating captivating art is no small feat. Yet, for celebrated French sculptor François-Xavier Lalanne, his creations are nothing short of mesmerizing. His influence on 20th-century culture, through works that continue to captivate art enthusiasts, is a testament to the weight of his contribution. Lalanne's work shifts paradigms, bringing surreal pieces and decorative art objects to life that are coveted now more than ever.
Most notably known for his Moutons de Laine, or sheep sculptures, Lalanne, alongside his wife Claude Lalanne, became known as one of the most dynamic co-creatures in 20th-century art. Throughout his career, he crafted a sculptural bar for fashion designer Yves Saint Laurent and presented his work in galleries around Paris. Today, his work is featured in prominent museums such as the Cooper Hewitt Museum, the Musée Nationale d'Art Moderne, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris.
In celebration of his legacy, on Friday, October 10, at 11 a.m. ET, British auction house Christie's is hosting a single-owner live sale titled François-Xavier Lalanne Sculpteur: Collection Dorothée Lalanne. The auction will feature 70 pieces from Lalanne's daughter's collection, Dorothée. This collection features the artist's signature mix of animals, memorable motifs, and rare models. Following the auction, an exhibition at Christie's Rockefeller Center in New York City, curated by French luxury fashion designer Simon Porte Jacquemus, will open to the public from October 4 to October 10.