Rare Chandigarh Heritage Items Auctioned for ₹3.93 Crore in France

Sixteen heritage items from Chandigarh, India, were auctioned for a total of ₹3.93 crore in a recent event held in Paris, France. These valuable pieces were designed by Swiss architect Pierre Jeanneret, cousin of the renowned architect Le Corbusier, who was responsible for planning the city of Chandigarh.

Auction Highlights

The auction drew art collectors and enthusiasts from across Europe, showcasing furniture and decorative pieces originally crafted for Chandigarh’s government buildings and residences in the 1950s. Known for their modernist style and architectural significance, the items epitomize innovative design and craftsmanship.

The standout piece was a bookcase that fetched the highest bid of €40,700 (approximately ₹36 lakh). Renowned for blending functionality with aesthetic appeal, this piece demonstrated Jeanneret’s signature clean lines and precision. Other auction items included:

• Chairs
• Armchairs
• Desks

Each reflecting Jeanneret’s commitment to quality and creative design.

Cultural and Historical Importance

The auction house curated the event with an emphasis on the cultural importance of the pieces. Organizers stressed that the sale highlights the global appreciation for Chandigarh’s unique architectural heritage and the enduring legacy of Pierre Jeanneret.

Developed in the 1950s as India’s first planned city post-independence, Chandigarh was a collaboration between Le Corbusier and Jeanneret to envision innovative urban living. Their furniture designs continue to be highly prized by collectors, museums, and modernist architecture aficionados worldwide.

Significance of the Sale

1. Preservation: Auctioning such items aids in preserving and promoting awareness of Chandigarh’s significant contribution to design and architecture.
2. Cultural Value: These items, once part of public offices and residences, are priceless cultural artifacts.
3. International Interest: The competitive bidding among European buyers reflects a rising global enthusiasm for Indian heritage art and design.
4. Future Recognition: Collectors hope this event will foster further conservation efforts and recognition of Chandigarh’s artistic history.
5. Art Market Trend: This auction echoes a growing trend of valuing mid-20th century design movements in the international art and auction market.

Stay tuned for more updates from Questiqa Europe News.

About The Author