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Lison de Caunes transforms humble rye straw into dazzling masterpieces, proving that luxury can sprout from the most unexpected roots.
SAMANTHA GREENE
Cartier, 13 Paix ©Gaëlle Le Boulicaut
For Lison de Caunes, straw marquetry is not merely a profession; it is a legacy. Her early exposure to the medium in Groult’s studio planted the seeds for a lifelong passion. Initially pursuing bookbinding, she later returned to her roots, bringing with her a bookbinder’s precision and tools, such as the bone folder, which remain integral to her process. This fusion of disciplines allowed her to approach straw marquetry with a fresh perspective, elevating its aesthetic potential while respecting its traditional methods.
Straw marquetry involves painstakingly arranging strands of rye straw—natural or dyed—into intricate patterns to adorn furniture, wall panels, and decorative objects. The process is entirely manual, requiring extraordinary patience and attention to detail. Historically, the craft was used as an affordable alternative to exotic wood veneers and was practiced by artisans and prisoners alike. Through Lison’s innovation, however, it has transcended its humble origins to become a highly coveted art form.
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Lison de Caunes has elevated the traditional craft of straw marquetry to new heights, transforming it into a modern symbol of artistry and sophistication. With roots deeply embedded in the artistic traditions of her grandfather, André Groult, a celebrated Art Deco decorator, Lison has redefined this once-overlooked technique. Her eponymous Ateliers Lison de Caunes now stands as a testament to her dedication to preserving and advancing this intricate art form.
One of her most celebrated works is the “Boîte à Soleil,” a masterpiece created in collaboration with Pierre Marie. This intricate box, inspired by the 18th and 19th-century tradition of straw marquetry, required four months of meticulous craftsmanship. Similarly, her collaboration with Mydriaz Studio on the “Loïe” suspension lamp showcases how straw marquetry can harmonize with other materials, such as brass, to create stunning contemporary designs.
The reach of Ateliers Lison de Caunes extends far beyond France. Prestigious commissions from luxury brands and hospitality giants, such as Cartier, Guerlain, Bulgari Hotels, and Cheval Blanc, have cemented Lison’s reputation as an international design luminary. Her work graces iconic spaces like the Guerlain boutique on the Champs-Élysées, where an entire mezzanine is adorned with her creations, and Harrods in London, where her artistry elevates the shopping experience.
Lison de Caunes ©LouisTeran, Michelangelo Foundation
Cartier, 17 rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré - Paris ©Cartier
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Guerlain boutique, Champs-Élysées ©Manolo Yllera
Boîte à Soleil, Pierre Marie x Ateliers Lison de Caunes ©Philippe Garica
Lison de Caunes has succeeded in modernizing straw marquetry while maintaining its artisanal essence. The shimmering hues of the straw, enhanced with gold leaf, mother-of-pearl, and even feathers, bring an unparalleled vibrancy and texture to her creations. Collaborations with artists and designers like Cédric Pelletier, Ateliers Gohard, and Lucie Touret have further enriched her repertoire, resulting in pieces that blend diverse artistic influences.
At the heart of Lison de Caunes’ work is her unwavering commitment to innovation within tradition. Rye straw, sourced annually from Burgundy, undergoes a meticulous dyeing process to achieve exclusive colors. This raw material, once used for chair reupholstering, becomes a medium for artistic expression in her hands. Techniques like laser cutting and the incorporation of palladium leaf and constellations have transformed straw marquetry into a medium that defies time and trends.
Lison’s dedication to promoting French craftsmanship is exemplified by her membership in Grands Ateliers de France and her recognition as a Maître d’Art in 1996. She has also been a driving force in Par Excellence, a collective showcasing French expertise in the United States. Through this platform, she collaborates with other distinguished houses like Ateliers Saint-Jacques and Ozone, presenting her work to a global audience.
Cartier, Geneva ©Gaëlle Le Boulicaut
Her ability to adapt straw marquetry to diverse contexts is evident in projects ranging from furniture and decorative objects to large-scale architectural installations. Recent collaborations with interior designers such as Peter Marino, Louise Liljencrantz, and Glenn Sestig have produced timeless pieces, including the “Chunky Cloud Sky” table and the “Beausoleil” table, which seamlessly integrate into high-end interiors.
Louxor dresser © Xavier Defaix
Beyond her collaborations, Lison de Caunes has also established her own line of creations under Lison de Caunes Créations. This collection includes coffee tables, screens, and decorative objects that marry timeless elegance with modern design. Each piece reflects her belief that straw marquetry, despite its traditional roots, holds limitless potential for contemporary application.
That’s All Folks table, India Mahdavi x Ateliers Lison de Caunes ©Gaëlle Le Boulicaut
Rye straw, Ateliers
Lison de Caunes ©Louis Teran
Lison de Caunes
©Louis Teran
Lison’s work serves as a bridge between the past and the future, preserving the artisanal integrity of straw marquetry while pushing its boundaries. Her creations are not just objects of beauty but also a celebration of craftsmanship, storytelling, and the enduring appeal of handmade artistry.
In a world where luxury often equates to rarity and uniqueness, Lison de Caunes has positioned straw marquetry as a quintessential expression of both. Her mastery of the craft, combined with her visionary approach, ensures that this age-old technique continues to captivate and inspire. From the shimmering surfaces of her bespoke designs to the prestigious spaces they inhabit, Lison de Caunes proves that true luxury lies in the intersection of heritage, innovation, and the human touch.