René Perrot

Modern Masters Tapestries selection by Didier Marien

René Perrot (1912–1979) was a celebrated French artist whose vibrant, nature-inspired designs helped define mid-20th-century tapestry art. After studying at the École des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, Perrot collaborated with esteemed Aubusson workshops, including Ateliers Pinton, creating over 500 masterful tapestry cartoons. His works, like "La Grande Cascade", feature lush botanical scenes and intricate animal motifs, blending fine art with decorative tradition. Modern Masters Tapestries proudly presents a curated selection of René Perrot tapestries, honoring his enduring legacy and exceptional craftsmanship. Perrot’s work remains highly sought after by collectors and design enthusiasts for its poetic elegance and timeless modernism.

Learn more about the artist

René Perrot Tapestries and Rugs

René Perrot’s artistic journey commenced at the National School of Decorative Arts in Paris, where he studied from 1932 to 1936. Initially pursuing a career as a poster artist, Perrot’s creative pursuits were interrupted by the outbreak of World War II.

In 1932, a pivotal encounter with Jean Lurçat ignited Perrot’s passion for wall art decoration. He pioneered a unique wall decoration technique known as nitrogravure on Comblanchien stone, a testament to his innovative spirit and artistic ingenuity.

Perrot’s staunch anti-militarist sentiments inspired two albums dedicated to the First World War, one bearing the preface of Roland Dorgelès and the other by François Barthille. During the war, he joined forces with Paul Flamand and his team in the Jeune France movement, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to social and artistic expression.

Following the war’s conclusion, Perrot immersed himself in the world of tapestry, apprenticing in Felletin and later in Aubusson, the heart of French tapestry production. From 1945 onwards, he dedicated himself wholeheartedly to tapestry design, producing over 500 cartoons executed by renowned tapestry workshops, including Rivière des Borderies, Ateliers Pinton, and Tapisserie d’Aubusson.

Alongside his tapestry creations, Perrot remained an active engraver, utilizing both wood and etching techniques. His creative endeavors extended to ceramics, where he established himself as a respected artist.

Perrot’s artistic brilliance was recognized through numerous solo and group exhibitions in France and abroad, as well as his participation in prominent art fairs. His works grace the collections of prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in Paris, the Mobilier National, the Museum of Hunting, History, and Nature in the Loire Valley, the Château-Museum of Gien, and the Museum of Art and History of Dreux.

The Modern Masters Tapestries Gallery’s presentation of “The Great Waterfall” offers a rare opportunity to witness René Perrot’s artistic mastery firsthand. This magnificent tapestry exemplifies his profound understanding of tapestry techniques, his exceptional color sense, and his ability to create captivating compositions that transcend the boundaries of traditional tapestry design.