Jules Leleu

Jules Leleu (1883-1961) was born in Boulogne-sur-mer in France. He was born into a family of cabinet makers. He worked with his brother and after the First World War specialized in making furniture, opening his gallery in Avenue Franklin Roosevelt, Paris in 1924. He also exhibited at the famous Exhibition of Industrial and Modern Art in 1925 from which the name Art Deco arose.This important decorator was at the height of his career between 1920-1948, working on important commissions and designing houses for Chiefs of State, Ambassadors and other wealthy patrons such as industrialists. Interestingly he also designed cabins for ocean liners.His is one of the most prestigious names of this era of French decoration, a name synonomous with luxury and prestige.The House of Leleu was a family business and by the late 1930s his sons Andre and Jean and daughter Paule were active partners. During 1948-1970 he worked under the direction of his son Andre.The furniture is often compared to his compatriot Ruhlmann as both liked simple shapes, exotic woods, bronze and marquetry.He outlived Ruhlmann and becam adventurous, exploring new materials such as artificial lacquer, plastic and aluminium.