Photos By Gail

François-Xavier Lalanne’s Gorille Consol, often referred to as the Gorilla Table, is one of his iconic sculptural works. Along with his wife Claude Lalanne (collectively know as Les Lalannes), the artist and designer was renowned for creating whimsical and surrealistic sculptures, often combining functional elements with artistic forms inspired by nature.

The Gorilla Table is a prime example of Lalanne’s unique approach to art and design.  Crafted from bronze, a material the couple frequently used, the sculpture features a gorilla figure that serves as the base or support for a glass tabletop, blending the boundary between art and furniture.

The console exemplifies Lalanne’s characteristic style of incorporating animal forms into functional objects. The gorilla is depicted in a naturalistic yet stylized manner, capturing both its the strength and the grace. While it serves as a functional console table, it is also a striking piece of art. This duality is central to Lalanne’s philosophy of creating works that are both useful and visually captivating.

The works of François-Xavier and Claude Lalanne have gained significant popularity among collectors and art enthusiasts. Their pieces often fetch high prices at auctions and are displayed in prestigious galleries and private collections worldwide.

The Gorille Consol exemplifies François-Xavier Lalanne’s talent for merging whimsical, animal-inspired forms with everyday utility, creating pieces that are both functional and artistically significant.

Photographed as Part of Les Lalanne: Zoophites at Paul Kasmin Gallery in NYC.