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BIOGRAPHY

DOMINIQUE

Maison Dominique was founded in 1922 in Paris by the decorators André Domin (1883-1962) and Marcel Genevrière (1885-1967).

Their first exhibition was at the Salon of the “Société des Artistes Décorateurs” the same year, where they presented small avant-garde furniture pieces in amaranth and mahogany. These creations are influenced by the contemporary new style, Cubism, and demonstrate that modern furniture can be functional without sacrificing natural elegance.

At the 1925 International Exposition of Modern Decorative and Industrial Arts, Dominique designed the small salon for the private apartments of a French embassy, which garnered great success.

In 1926, André Domin and Marcel Genevrière joined forces with Jean Puiforcat, Raymond Templier, Pierre Legrain, and Pierre Chareau to create the "Groupe des Cinq". This group shared a common disdain for any imitation of the past and a strong preference for geometry. They presented their works together until 1929 in several exhibitions, seeking to free themselves from the constraints of official salons that poorly accommodated diverse expressions.

Also, in 1929, Dominique moved to Avenue Kléber in the 16th arrondissement of Paris, introducing a new material into their creations: metal. In 1933, Dominique collaborated with the Compagnie Générale Transatlantique and furnished one of the four luxury suites on the ocean liner "Normandie," the "Rouen" suite. At this time, the firm reached the peak of its renown.

The furniture and objects designed by André Domin and Marcel Genevrière are recognizable by their balanced forms, beautiful proportions, sober decor, and refined use of materials.

After the war, Dominique created numerous pieces presented in salons in France and abroad and received commissions from the Mobilier National, notably for the Élysée Palace.
In 1953, after André Domin's departure, the firm continued its activities under the direction of his son Alain. In 1960, Dominique participated in the furnishing of a luxury apartment on the ocean liner "France".
Maison Dominique successfully adapted to emerging styles to maintain the modernity of its furniture, rugs, lamps, seating, and art objects. Thus, its approach, which met the needs and trends of the time, allowed it to contribute to the creation of the style of its era.

In 1970, Alain Domin decided to close Maison Dominique.

THE WORKS