Vintage French Insa Facade Ribbed Panel by Jean Prouvé, 1960

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This architectural grille facade element is a remarkable piece designed by the acclaimed mid-century designer Jean Prouvé, and produced by … Read more This architectural grille facade element is a remarkable piece designed by the acclaimed mid-century designer Jean Prouvé, and produced by C.I.M.T in France around 1960. Originally part of the Institut National des Sciences Appliquées (INSA) on the Doua campus in Villeurbanne, France, this aluminum panel served as an insulating facade element for the building erected in 1957. Crafted from pressed aluminum and filled with foam, this panel merges function with aesthetics, demonstrating Prouvé’s skill in combining industrial materials with modern design principles. The panel, which has developed a charming patina after 60 years of vertical installation, carries visible age-related wear, such as surface wear from the weather, reflecting its history as part of the campus’s facade. Recently, much of the original facade was removed during renovations, and many panels were discarded. Fortunately, a few pieces were preserved, including this one, making it a rare find for collectors and admirers of Prouvé’s work and architecture. When mounted on a wall, the panel transcends its functional origins to become an artful, sculptural statement. Its textured aluminum surface complements mid-century modern decor beautifully, especially when paired with other Prouvé furniture, as shown in the reference photos. This panel captures the essence of Prouvé’s legacy as a highly sought-after designer of the 20th century, and it is a unique piece for any serious collector or design enthusiast. This piece is attributed to the mentioned designer/maker. It has no attribution mark and no
official proof of authenticity,
however it is well documented in design history. I take full responsibility for any authenticity



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