The Spirit of the 20th Century

A plural approach to 20th-century creation

In Fontainebleau, Osenat dedicates its sales to design, furniture and decorative arts of the 20th century, offering an in-depth perspective on the major aesthetic and formal evolutions of modern living.

The auctions entitled “L’Esprit du XXe”, held three times a year, are designed to reflect this great diversity and present a coherent panorama of artistic expressions developed since 1900.

L’Esprit du XXe: a cross-disciplinary vision of modern arts

These sales bring together, within a single ensemble, painting, sculpture, decorative arts, Art Nouveau, Art Deco and design, as well as disciplines that have profoundly shaped the visual culture of the 20th century.

Photography, video, fashion, street art, comic art and contemporary creative objects coexist, illustrating the evolution of forms, uses and aesthetics throughout the decades.

Design, Art Nouveau and Art Deco in Fontainebleau

Particular attention is given to 20th-century decorative arts, modernist pieces, Scandinavian creations, French design icons, as well as works stemming from the major movements of Art Nouveau and Art Deco.

Furniture, lighting, ceramics, edition objects and signed works testify to the lasting influence of these movements on modern living and on the history of design.

Expertise, selection and dissemination of works

Each piece presented in the L’Esprit du XXe auctions benefits from specialised expertise, careful presentation and targeted dissemination to collectors, design enthusiasts and institutions. Catalogues ensure optimal visibility for design works, decorative arts and the many forms of 20th-century creation.

Appraisals and department contact

Appraisals are free, confidential and without obligation, in Fontainebleau or remotely, by appointment or via our online tool.

💬 Do you own a design piece, an Art Nouveau or Art Deco work, or a 20th-century decorative arts object?

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Contact

Peggy Balley
Peggy Balley
Partner – Head of Department
+33 (0)6 83 31 37 44
p.balley@osenat.com
Paul Ribault
Paul Ribault
Assistant
+33 (0)6 80 80 33 54
assistant-artmoderne@osenat.com

Expert

Peggy Balley
Côme Remy
Arts décoratifs du XXe siècle