May 4, 2021
LVMH’s Loewe has launched a new project “that reinforces its commitment to craft” in a
link-up with Sotheby’s auction house that’s part artwork exhibition, part accessories collection.
The project is a collection of “unique, artisan crafted objects, exploring the act of weaving” through artist-embellished pottery, woven leather bags, baskets and accessories.
The concept is built around the main piece in the collection, a Galician chestnut roaster. This is a handmade clay pot in which multiple holes are punched. It’s then decorated using different weaving techniques.
This concept has also been applied to the Loewe accessories made from finely crafted leather and raffia. The company said they’re “rich in artisanal details” and include bags and bracelets, plus woven and knotted vases.
So where does Sotheby’s come in? It’s exhibiting a selection of seven artist-embellished chestnut roasters featuring experimental weaving techniques that were created for the project. They've been designed by Japanese artist Arko, China’s Min Chen and Spain’s Laia Arqueros. The handmade pots, created by master potterAntonio Pereira, have been reinterpreted by the trio and are being displayed alongside Impressionist, Modern and Contemporary Art in New York until May 12.
It’s interesting that the exhibited pieces are also being sold at a fixed price on Sotheby’s Buy Now online marketplace this month, which makes Loewe the first major luxury fashion house to exclusively consign with the platform.