SERGE MOUILLE (1922-1988) is an artist recognized for his significant contributions to the field of lighting design. A graduate of the School of Applied Arts in Paris, Mouille received a master silversmith diploma and worked in the studio of his teacher, silversmith, and sculptor Gilbert LaCroix. Later, Mouille established his metalworking studio, initially focusing on commissions for handrails, chandeliers, and wall sconces.

However, it was a fortuitous meeting in 1951 with Jacques Adnet, director of the Company of the French Arts, which proved to be a turning point in Mouille’s career. Adnet commissioned Mouille to design a large lamp for South American customers, which led to the creation of the renowned Black lighting series, including standing lamps with one and three arms. These pieces were Mouille’s first foray into lighting design, marking a transition in his career.

Throughout the 1950s, Mouille designed a series of angular, insect-like wall-mounted and standing lamps and smaller, more curved wall sconces. His works are characterized by their sculptural aesthetic by eschewing the complexity of Italian models, which were becoming popular in the market during the 1950s.

Mouille’s contributions to the field of lighting design extended beyond his works. He established the Société de Création de Modèles (SCM) in 1961 as a means of fostering young and emerging lighting designers. Mouille continued to work and teach for the rest of his life, exhibiting his lighting and jewelry designs at various exhibitions.

Mouille’s contributions to the field of lighting design were recognized through various awards and honors, including a medal from the City of Paris and the Charles Plumet prize. He also undertook institutional lighting design projects, including at the University in Antony, schools in Strasbourg and Marseilles, and the Bizerte Cathedral. Mouille’s later works, such as his “Colonnes” collection, which combined incandescence and fluorescence, debuted at the 1962 Salon for interior design and cemented his reputation as an innovative and influential designer in the field of lighting design.

(Photo Credit: Barnie’s; Source: Carpenters Workshop Gallery)