Liane Rougier for Maison Rougier – 1970s Shell Lamp

Liane ROUGIER for MAISON ROUGIER

Large “Shell” table lamp, circa 1970–1975.

Molded acrylic (methacrylate), opaline acrylic diffuser, black Plexiglas and chromed metal base.

Important table lamp depicting a giant clam shell, composed of two large molded methacrylate valves with realistically sculpted ridges.

At the center, a hemispherical opaline acrylic diffuser conceals the light source and evokes a pearl. The ensemble rests on a quadrangular black lacquered metal base edged with brass.

During the 1970s, Liane ROUGIER created a series of iconic lighting designs for MAISON ROUGIER, emblematic of organic design. Her work was based on the innovative use of methacrylate (Plexiglas).

This “Shell” model, the house's most iconic creation, translates the form of a giant clam into a sculptural language in which light becomes material. The work belongs to the Hollywood Regency movement, popular in the 1970s for its spectacular forms and marine or mineral motifs.

At the crossroads of lighting design and sculpture, this sought-after piece is now among the most highly valued creations by MAISON ROUGIER on the 20th century design market.