Jean-Claude FARHI (1940-2012) - Lot 63

Jean-Claude FARHI (1940-2012) Volume sculpture of a white cross in Plexiglas. Private commission. Circa 1970 Provenance: Jean-Marie Rossi Jean-Claude Farhi was close to the "Nouveau Réalisme" group, and created playful sculptures in colored Plexiglas. Their aestheticism and geometric forms echo various movements: Bauhaus, Futurism and Constructivism. Today, his works are exhibited in numerous galleries, museums and private collections. These accumulations were commissioned by Mr. Jean-Marie Rossi, a close friend of the artist's in the early years of his career. Jean-Marie Rossi was a key player in introducing contemporary art to French collectors. For example, he helped steer collectors towards artists such as César, Christo, Arman, Farhi... in the 1960s-1970s. His influence as an antiques dealer and gallery owner has helped to bring contemporary artists to the fore and integrate them into prestigious private collections. Although the specific details of the relationship between Jean-Marie Rossi and Arman are not widely documented, Mr. Rossi's commitment to contemporary art undeniably contributed to the recognition and dissemination of Arman's work in France. As a promoter of the artistic avant-garde, Rossi played an essential role in the rise of the Nouveau Réalisme movement and the valorization of the artists who were part of it.