2019

Manufacturer of works of art, reproductive of excellence.

For this first meeting dedicated to the artisans of art, Fabrice Juan invites us to a workshop that he particularly appreciates.
Atelier Prométhée is a manufacturer of artistic objects from which he likes to rejuvenate and draw inspiration. We are still in the courtyard and yet the delicate smell of fresh plaster awakens in us forgotten memories. From the outside, it is impossible to imagine the treasures that lie within. Fabrice's drive and determination reminds us that we did not come here by chance.

Once the door is pushed, we discover busts, vases, statues and a multitude of sculptures.

We have just entered a place as astonishing, as discreet and as surprising as is visible on our faces. After crossing this space flooded with light, we get acquainted with Benoit Ruffenach. One of the two partners of Atelier Prométhée.

Atelier Prométhée was, in its infancy, a specialist in terracotta from the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries.

But soon enough, the manufacturer enriched its offering with real know-how in reproduction of works of art. Today, it collaborates, among others, with the gardens of the Château de Versailles, the Musée Rodin and the Musée Bourdelle. It dresses the largest luxury boutiques and makes custom orders for the greatest international decorators.

Fabrice Juan has been maintaining for several years, a very nice relationship of complicity with the Atelier Prométhée in which he appreciates the seriousness, the demand and the technical control that is undeniable.

The tour begins.

Next, we move to a Francis Pompom bear covered, for the occasion, in a thick layer of silicon material. He reigns across these workshops with much calm, serenity and kindness.

The artisans we cross, despite their concentration, all take the time to talk to us about their work. Within seconds, we understand, why Fabrice Juan feels so good in this environment. From a table, he takes a sample, the profile of which is chained with sinuous and geometric curves. The shape holds all his attention. He looks it carefully... examines it in the light, then rotates it several times. A question ensues. The craftsman, after having given himself a short period of reflection answers him with confidence. Fabrice Juan leaves, visibly rejoiced, by the answer obtained.

On this floor we discover, laid on the floor, the print molds. How could we have imagined that it would take so much to cast this flamboyant rider on his steed.

A little farther along, dozens of busts aligned, are preparing to join the rooms of a large hotel. Fabrice is amused with the good humour that characterizes him.

We are in a temple of wonders.

Surrounded by giant vases, Doric columns, hand-painted glazed tiles, cherubs, and ornamental medallions... sometimes surreal. Like that, hanging on the wall, a pair of glasses for amusement. A little further, two greyhounds, at rest, hold the attention of Fabrice. The discussion re-engages with a craftsman and Benoit who joined us for the occasion. There is a good chance that one day these two sculptures will be incorporated in the ceremonial entrance of a particular hotel.

Our visit ends, alas too quickly, alongside the fawn with the kid, as seductive as it is slender.
The craftsman who takes care of it, stalks the slightest imperfection. This work should join the gardens of the most famous castles of tomorrow.

Whilst finishing up our business, but a question is tapping us. What did Fabrice have in mind when he held his raw material sample in his hand? The answer is not waiting: "A trumeau fireplace." We will not know much more, if only a happy owner should take advantage of it soon in one of his current projects.

Until our next invitation, we thank the Atelier Prométhée for their warm welcome.