Jean Prouvé French, 1901-1984

Jean Prouvé is a French architect and designer, renowned for his innovative approach combining aesthetics and functionality. Born in Nancy, Prouvé grew up in an artistic environment, his father being a famous painter and sculptor from the School of Nancy.

Trained as an artistic metalworker, Prouvé quickly applied his technical skills to the creation of furniture and architectural structures. He opened his own workshop in 1924, producing pieces characterized by their simplicity, lightness, and adaptability. Prouvé's creations, such as the Standard Chair, the Compas Table, or the Tropical House, reflect his constant concern for combining industry and craftsmanship. Using materials like steel, aluminum, and wood, he developed innovative manufacturing techniques, enabling mass production of affordable, high-quality furniture. As an architect, Prouvé designed prefabricated buildings addressing social and humanitarian needs, such as the Tropical Houses for Africa. His philosophy of "architecture as a service" influenced generations of architects and designers. Jean Prouvé's legacy lies in his vision of democratic design, combining technical excellence and social responsibility. His timeless creations are now celebrated in museums and collections worldwide.