The Furstenberg Gallery: a temple to surrealism and pre-Columbian art
Nestled in the heart of Saint-Germain-des-Prés, one of Paris’s most emblematic districts, Galerie Furstenberg is a must for art lovers. Founded in 1971 by Pierre and Geneviève Argillet, it has established itself as a major player in the distribution and publication of surrealist works. More than fifty years after its creation, it continues to bring to life the genius of the great masters of the 20th century. . Since then, she has broadened her artistic spectrum to include pre-Columbian art.
A special bond with Salvador Dalí
The Furstenberg Gallery ‘s reputation is due in no small part to its unique association with Salvador Dalí. The story of the Argillet couple and the master of Surrealism began in 1959. Pierre Argillet, collector and publisher, began a 25-year artistic collaboration with Dalí. This relationship produced over 150 original copper engravings. Today, they are major works of modern art.
One of the most ambitious projects of this collaboration is the “Mythologie” series. A collection of 16 copper engravings, produced between 1963 and 1967. Each print bears witness to Dalí’s whimsical, visionary take on mythological tales. He pushes the limits of symbolism and the imaginary.
The works resulting from this collaboration are still exhibited and available at the Galerie Furstenberg. They offer collectors and art lovers a rare opportunity to acquire certified original pieces.
A commitment to the masters of surrealism
Beyond Dalí, the Furstenberg Gallery has worked with other iconic figures of Surrealism, consolidating its artistic and cultural legacy. These include Léonor Fini, famous for her dreamlike paintings and powerful female portraits. Hans Bellmer, whose works explore themes of desire and metamorphosis. Or Wassily Kandinsky, pioneer of abstract art, whose colorful compositions continue to fascinate art lovers.
Each print exhibited at the gallery is selected with extreme care, guaranteeing its authenticity and museum quality.
A precious photographic collection
Alongside his work as a print publisher, Pierre Argillet has also immortalized the great names of modern art through an exceptional photographic collection. These photographs, on display in the gallery, offer an intimate and authentic look at major artists such as Georges Braque, co-founder of Cubism. Pablo Picasso, one of the most influential artists of the 20th century. Leonor Fini, whose singular pictorial universe continues to inspire generations. Salvador Dalí, immortalized in moments of creation and spontaneity.
These photographs add a documentary and historical dimension to the gallery, allowing visitors to better understand the context and inspirations of the artists on display.
Pre-Columbian art: a new artistic horizon
Since 2001, the Galerie Furstenberg has expanded its field of exploration to include a collection of pre-Columbian art. This ancient Latin American art is represented by artifacts from Mexico, Guatemala, Belize, Costa Rica, Colombia, Brazil, Ecuador and Peru.
Each piece on display is rigorously authenticated, highlighting the skills and beliefs of pre-Hispanic civilizations. Through this approach, the gallery contributes to the preservation and enhancement of these cultures, while offering collectors the opportunity to acquire exceptional objects. The Furstenberg Gallery is a European reference in the pre-Columbian art market.
A gallery firmly rooted in the Paris art scene
Today run by Jean-Christophe Argillet, the Galerie Furstenberg continues to make its mark on the Parisian art scene. It is open to the public from Tuesday to Saturday, 10am to 6pm, and offers a unique immersion in the world of surrealism and pre-Columbian art.
For further information or to book an appointment, please contact the gallery on +33 (0)1 43 25 89 58, send an e-mail to [email protected] or visit the website.
📍 Located at 8 rue Jacob (Paris 6th arrondissement), it is easily accessible by metro via Saint-Germain-des-Prés and Mabillon stations.
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