Founded in 1901, the SAD (Société des Artistes Décorateurs) became one of the most influential ventures in the world of French creation during the 20th century.

Within its prestigious salon, held at one of Paris’s most iconic venues—the Grand Palais—creators from varied horizons, including interior architects, designers, visual artists, ceramists, and graphic designers, tirelessly promoted French taste through a continuous exercise of invention and experimentation.

To celebrate the 120th anniversary of the SAD, Galerie Meubles et Lumières pays tribute to its most renowned members by presenting a collection of furniture, seating, lighting, tapestries, and ceramics conceived throughout the prolific post-war period (1945–1973).

After years of research, the duo of antique dealers Alexandre Goult and Guilhem Faget have finally decided to reveal to the public this ensemble, a testament to the demanding standards of design and craftsmanship that embody the very philosophy of the SAD.

Like the Triennale di Milano in Italy, the SAD positioned itself as a defender of the decorative arts and design, extending its influence abroad. As the very first Association loi 1901, established around the same time as the opening of the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, the SAD initially sought to counter the “excesses” of Art Nouveau, flourished in 1925 at the International Exhibition of Decorative Arts, and gained new stature in 1959 when it became a biennial event.

Highly selective, the salon clearly embraced a luxurious orientation, promoting French art at its highest level. Defending traditional craftsmanship while embracing the latest techniques and cutting-edge materials, the event became a true laboratory of research, suggesting a new art of living through concepts that revolutionized interiors. Every two years, this gathering brought together the most talented designers of its time.

Thibault Lannuzel

Beyond the selection of iconic works by SAD members on view at 58 rue Mazarine in Paris’s 6th arrondissement, Galerie Meubles et Lumières joins forces with Marie Alexandrine Yvernault to present an exceptional collection of artist jewelry (including works by Line Vautrin, Costanza, Dinh Van, Gargat).