Maurice Pré (1907–1988), born in Paris, was a leading French designer and decorator of the post-war era. A graduate of the École Boulle in 1924, he began his career in Jacques-Émile Ruhlmann’s prestigious workshop, where he worked for eight years. After a period in Switzerland with architect Laverrière, he returned to Paris in 1934 and collaborated with several renowned architects. From 1935 onward, he worked independently, presenting furniture ensembles at the 1937 International Exhibition and the Salon des Artistes Décorateurs.

As a committed teacher, he succeeded René Gabriel at the École des Arts Appliqués in 1946, taught at the École des Beaux-Arts in Nancy from 1947, and returned to the École Boulle in 1955. At the same time, he received major public commissions, including for the Mobilier National and the Palais de l’Élysée.

His style blended fine cabinetmaking, functional design, and at times rustic elements. He was particularly interested in serial production, designing modular furniture in oak, iron, and formica, sometimes decorated with ceramics by his wife, Denise Gatard. He remained active in the Société des Artistes Décorateurs and exhibited until 1966, after which he dedicated himself to painting and tapestry.

His iconic works of the 1950s include minimalist chairs in light oak or mahogany with faux-leather or velvet seats and compass legs, now considered hallmarks of French modernist design.