Window Facade Set from Jean Prouvé, Grenoble, France, 1965, Set of 2

Details

Description

Rare façade set consisting of a sliding window element and a solid enamel panel designed by Jean Prouvé and manufactured … Read more Rare façade set consisting of a sliding window element and a solid enamel panel designed by Jean Prouvé and manufactured for the André-Argouges high school in Grenoble, France, 1965. This ensemble illustrates the logic and versatility of the modular façade system Prouvé developed for the building. Rather than conceiving the façade as a fixed composition, he approached it as a flexible assembly of interchangeable units. Within this system, solid insulated panels, fixed glazing, and sliding window elements could be combined according to the specific needs of each interior space. The present set, composed of a horizontally divided sliding window above and a full enameled panel below, reflects a typical configuration where light, ventilation, and insulation are carefully balanced within a single bay. The sliding window element is executed in aluminum, with softly radiused corners and a central division allowing for lateral movement of the glass panels. The glazing is set within the frame using rubber gaskets, ensuring both thermal performance and a precise, clean junction between materials. Below, the solid panel is formed from pressed steel with a greige enamel finish, internally insulated and originally backed with a wooden interior face. Together, these components demonstrate Prouvé’s consistent attention to material efficiency, durability, and ease of assembly. In the architectural context of the school, such combinations created a rhythmic façade where transparency and opacity alternated in response to use. Classrooms could benefit from natural light and ventilation through the sliding window, while the lower solid panel provided insulation and visual stability. The restrained grey tone further unified the composition, allowing subtle variations in light and reflection to animate the surface. Seen today as a complete set, the relationship between both elements becomes especially clear. It reveals not only the technical intelligence of Prouvé’s system, but also his sensitivity to proportion and composition. The dialogue between the open, lightweight upper section and the grounded, solid lower panel transforms these functional components into a coherent and highly refined architectural expression. In good original condition with minor age related user signs. Provenance: André-Argouges high school, Grenoble 1965 Literature: Jean Prouvé Oeuvre Complète Volume 3: P. Sulzer, Birkhaüser, 2008, page 44-45 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



issues arising from misattribution See less