A rare group of pieces by Alberto Giacometti, Jean-Michel Frank and Emilio Terry, originating from private commissions and historic interiors, reflects the quiet sophistication that defines the taste of the 1930s. This dialogue between sculpture, furniture and intimate architecture resonates through the purity of line and the elegance of materials. "Two exceptional pieces by Diego Giacometti enrich this ensemble: a very rare Cerf et Renard console and a pair of Tête de lionne armchairs, both masterful examples of his poetic bestiary and distinctive sculptural language."

A second highlight pays tribute to the visionary momentum of French design in the 1950s, through emblematic creations by Jean Royère, Charlotte Perriand, Jean Prouvé and Serge Mouille — sculptural yet functional works that have become enduring icons of modern living.

The contemporary scene is represented by a curated selection of pieces by Ingrid Donat, Guy de Rougemont, Hervé Van der Straeten and André Dubreuil, leading figures of collectible design whose works stand at the crossroads of art, sculpture and exceptional craftsmanship.

The sale will also feature two outstanding ensembles. The first, composed of 50 pieces selected by Tiqui Atencio and Ago Demirdjian, offers a design counterpart to the 20th/21st Century Art sale held in New York earlier in May. The second pays tribute to Louis Cane, who passed away recently, with 50 emblematic works coming directly from his house-studio in Villefranche-sur-Mer.

In New York, on 12 June, Christie’s presents two highly anticipated sales. American Avant-Garde: The James D. Zellerbach Residence by Frances Elkins offers 36 lots from the celebrated Pacific Heights interiors. Highlights include a Games Table and Four ‘Spider’ Chairs by Frances Elkins, an important ‘Aragon’ low table by Jean-Michel Frank, rare pair of ‘Pyramides’ andirons by Alberto Giacometti and iconic pairs of Shell Sconces by Elkins herself.

The second auction and seasonal Design sale will bring together a survey of sculptural design of the 20th and 21st century from various owners. Leading the sale is The Goddard Memorial Window (1909–1910) by Tiffany Studios, a magnificent stained glass work originally created for St. Luke’s Episcopal Church in Rhode Island. Early designs by Alberto Giacometti and brother Diego Giacometti herald from Classic and Important Design from a Prestigious New York Collection such as the ‘Osselet’ and ‘Tete de femme’. French post-war marvels with a pair of Éléphanteau armchairs by Jean Royère, and Scandinavian design intrigues with the ‘Snowflake’ chandelier by Paavo Tynell. Les Lalanne is showcased with exceptional works by Claude Lalanne, such as the unique Structure végétale aux papillons, souris et oiseaux, Property from an Important Manhattan Collection, and L’enlèvement d’Europe, a spectacular patinated bronze sculpture, Property from a California Collection.

Together, these events offer a rich journey through the decorative arts, celebrating the enduring vision of the 20th and 21st century’s most influential designers.