Gilbert Poillerat Chaty Vallauris

Gilbert Poillerat, born in 1902 in Loir-et-Cher, moved to Paris to study at the Beaux-Arts and then at the Boulle School, specializing in chasing and forging while also finding time to paint. In 1921, at the age of 19, he joined Edgar Brandt’s decorative ironwork workshops, where he developed his passion for this medium. In 1925, he anonymously participated in the International Exhibition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts, contributing to Brandt’s designs at the Ruhlmann Collector’s Pavilion.

After leaving Brandt in 1927, Poillerat joined the company Baudet, Donon et Roussel, where he worked on decorative ironwork elements. From 1928 onwards, he exhibited his creations at the Salon d’Automne, making an impression with his assertive neoclassical style.

His personal style, characterized by graceful and robust arabesques, continued until the late 1950s, marked by elegance and French spirit. Collaborating with renowned decorators, he also exhibited in national and international events, leaving his mark on monumental works such as the doors of the Palais de Chaillot and the gates of the Eiffel Tower.

In the 1960s, his work evolved towards greater purity and an increasing use of bronze. As a professor at the National School of Decorative Arts from 1946 onwards, Poillerat undertook significant official commissions while continuing to create remarkable works. He passed away in 1988, leaving behind a creative and balanced body of work, characterized by rare technical perfection.