In the Mix

House in Provence

Design Miami

New York’s Magen H. creates a romantic, Cezanne-inspired mise-en-scène that celebrates timeless French style

This month and next, Magen H Gallery in New York is presenting House in Provence, an exhibition of mid-century French design curated to evoke the romantic aura of quintessential Provençal homes—including the home that post-Impressionist Paul Cezanne so famously occupied and painted in the South of France.

House in Provence by Paul Cezanne, c. 1885. Photo courtesy of the Indianapolis Museum of Art at Newfields

The furniture and objets included in the exhibition are almost entirely artisanally produced, standing in contrast to much of the mid-century French design that gets the most attention these days. Instead of Jean Prouvé’s rigid, folded steel series, you’ll find generously proportioned, deeply cushioned armchairs by Guillerme et Chambron; spirited, tile-clad cocktail tables by Baty; and textured rattan and ceramic vessels by Audoux et Minet that call out for a fresh, wild bouquet.

House in Provence at Magen H. Photo © Tiphaine Brun-Eppel; courtesy of Magen H Gallery

House in Provence offers an unexpected, immersive experience, one that combines warm wood tones, pale textiles, and vibrant ceramics with the audio sensation of singing cicadas, the smell of fresh lavender, and a picturesque vista through illustrated arched windows. According to the gallery: “Provence is a place for relaxing, enjoying the culture, and taking in the warm Mediterranean weather. As summer nears, this exhibition invites escape—away from our current routines toward an alluring Southern French lifestyle.” ◆

House in Provence at Magen H. Photo © Tiphaine Brun-Eppel; courtesy of Magen H Gallery

 House in Provence at Magen H. Photo © Tiphaine Brun-Eppel; courtesy of Magen H Gallery

House in Provence is on view at Magen H Gallery from May 5 to June 16, 2021. 

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