Gabriel Argy-Rousseau (Joseph-Gabriel Rousseau) is known as a master glassmaker. His works include decorative glassware, as well as jewelry.
Biography and career
Gabriel Argy-Rousseau was born on March 17, 1885 in Meslay-le-Vidam, France. In 1902, he entered the National School of Sèvres, where he received a diploma in ceramic engineering.
In 1914, Argy-Rousseau began exhibiting his works at the Salon des Artistes Françaises in Paris. Critics and the public recognized his originality and talent in working with a little-known material – pâte de verre (“glass paste”).
Between 1921 and 1931, Argy-Rousseau created the Glass Paste Company Argy-Rousseau, which produced glass products in small series. He also created jewelry: pendants and lockets with stylized forms of fruits, flowers, butterflies and mythological figures.
In 1931, the company was finally dissolved due to the economic crisis. But Argys-Rousseau continued to create crystal paste products.
Gabriel Argys-Rousseau died on February 20, 1953 in Paris.
Technique and inventions
Argys-Rousseau developed a technique for cold molding crushed or powdered glass, which allows for complex color transitions and effects. He invented new ways of coloring the surface by applying oxide powder before re-firing at a low temperature.
Some works by Gabriel Argys-Rousseau:
- Vase “Fauns and Nymphs”;
- Glass figurine “Dancer” (circa 1928);
- The Papillon (Butterfly) pendant, created in collaboration with the sculptor Marcel Buren.
Argy-Rousseau’s works are distinguished by their recognizable individual style and high decorative value.
