Large Art Deco Floor Lamp In Hammered Wrought Iron, Attributed To Michel Zadounaïsky, Lyon, Circa 1930

An elegant and rare Art Deco floor lamp attributed to the Lyon-based master metalworker Michel Zadounaïsky (1903–1983), a remarkable testament to the revival of French decorative arts in the 1930s.

This tall, architecturally designed piece features a composition of great visual lightness, made entirely of hand-hammered wrought iron. The slender uprights are connected by a rhythmic pattern of geometric interlacing and stylized volutes, while the upper section features an elegant crown with sinuous lines, characteristic of the artist’s decorative style.

The base, which is particularly intricate, is adorned with a rich openwork design combining scrolls, palmettes, and stylized plant motifs in the purest Art Deco spirit. The piece as a whole demonstrates a perfect mastery of the art of forging, with each element having been shaped and assembled using traditional techniques of artistic ironwork.

Beyond its function as a light source, this floor lamp resembles a true decorative sculpture in which iron becomes a medium of expression. Its refined design evokes the creations presented by Zadounaïsky at the Lyon salons of the interwar period, a time during which he established himself as one of the most brilliant French artistic ironworkers.

The electrical system has been fully overhauled in our workshops to ensure perfect operation. The structure has also undergone restoration that respects its authenticity, preserving its beautiful antique patina and all the character of its handcrafted construction.

A striking decorative piece, ideal for an Art Deco, contemporary, or classic interior, where it will bring both light and sculptural elegance.

Period: circa 1930
Style: Art Deco
Materials: wrought and hammered iron
Electrical system serviced
In very good condition

Michel Zadounaïsky (1903–1983) – Lyon-based metalworker and sculptor

Born in 1903 in the Russian Empire, Michel Zadounaïsky arrived in Lyon with his family at the age of thirteen. He briefly attended the École des Beaux-Arts in Lyon before devoting himself to metalwork at the Fournet chandelier factory, where he developed exceptional mastery of wrought iron, hammering, and repoussé. His talent was recognized early on, and he caught the attention of the famous Parisian ironworker Raymond Subes, though he declined Subes’ offers in order to preserve his artistic independence.

In 1924, he opened his own studio in Lyon and played an active role in the revival of Lyon’s decorative arts alongside André Sornay, Christian Krass, and Claudius Linossier. His Art Deco creations are distinguished by a great graphic elegance, blending geometry, stylized curves, plant motifs, and animal compositions. He created lighting fixtures, consoles, grilles, doors, mirrors, and wrought-iron furniture that transcend simple craftsmanship to achieve a truly sculptural dimension.

Now considered one of the most important French artistic metalworkers of the 20th century, Zadounaïsky is notably represented in the collections of the Musée National d'Art Moderne and the Musée des Beaux-Arts in Lyon. His work remains particularly sought after by lovers of Art Deco and exceptional wrought ironwork.