A Paris chez Antoinette Poisson

New pattern "2 rue Bonaparte"

Literally translated as «poor art,» the term Arte Povera refers to a category of polychrome furniture produced in the 18th century, unrelated to the contemporary art movement of the same name.

In response to the European craze for Chinese and Japanese lacquerware, Venice devised a local alternative to these time-consuming and costly imports. This gave rise to the «poor lacquer» technique: cut-out engravings were glued onto furniture and then saturated with varnish to mimic trompe-l’œil painting. Specialized workshops, such as the Remondini manufactory in Bassano, began producing ultra-fine papers designed specifically for this purpose.

Freely inspired by masters like Canaletto and Guardi, these whimsical designs adorned everything from large panels to small vanity items; figures such as ladies, cavaliers, putti, and Chinese subjects appear amidst pastoral landscapes or classical architecture.

A left-bank boutique for Antoinette Poisson

The year 2026 begins with a new Paris address at 2 Rue Bonaparte, 6th arrondissement. A privileged place in the heart of a neighborhood steeped in history shows the entire world of the house “A Paris chez Antoinette Poisson".
Known for having been home to many artists over the last few centuries, Saint Germain des Prés is full of galleries and antique shops, a sources of inspiration for all creative types.
A former private mansion located next to the École des Beaux-Arts, this address will allow interior design professionals and private individuals to discover or rediscover the entire range of Antoinette Poisson products, from timeless classics to the latest products.