The Photographs and Design Sales occurring on May 2022 at Christie’s Paris were the occasion to immerse oneself in the 20th century. Two photography sales — including the Collection of Susanne von Meiss — showcased some of the most iconic photographers of all time. In parallel, a Design sale — including Charlotte Perriand’s private collection — offered furniture from some of the most prestigious designers.

Almost 170 works by prestigious artists such as Alberto & Diego Giacometti, Jean Prouvé, Pierre Chareau, Jean Royère, Charlotte Perriand, Claude and François-Xavier Lalanne were offered at auction and presented in a scenography curated by Fredrik Karlsson. This sale achieved €19.4 million, including 6 millionaire auctions with bidders coming from 21 countries. The top lot of the auction, a chandelier Structure végétale aux papillons by Claude Lalanne was sold for €2,202,000, and the Perriand by Perriand collection coming from the mythical apartment of Charlotte Perriand rue Las Cases in Paris achieved a combined total of €1,457,820. The black design section of the sale was also a striking success. The pieces created by Jean Royère, such as the Boule Sofa and armchairs sold above a million, and the Georges Jouve and Janette Laverrière unique dining table set a new record for both artists.

The Fashion Photographs from the Susanne von Meiss Collection sale, live and online presented the greatest names of 20th century fashion photography: Richard Avedon, Irving Penn, Horst P. Horst, Lillian Bassman, Frank Horvat and William Klein. Helmut Newton’s photographs achieved remarkable success : the Eiffel Tower photography was sold for €378,000, and a print of Raquel Welch in her backyard achieved €44,100. Other highlights of the sale include the works of Irving Penn. The Station Sweeper Photography of 1951, and the Tuberous Begonia, respectively achieved €107,100 and €50,400.