Straw Marquetry Is A Lost Art Made New

Straw marquetry? No, it’s not a new type of cocktail…

Straw marquetry is similar to wood marquetry. But what does that mean? Straw replaces wood and is applied to a structure, furniture, tile, object, to form decorative design or patterns. Artists typically use rye straw, which is dried and then dyed before being designed. It was first practiced in Eastern cultures and brought to Europe in the 17th century. It is now a long lost craft. Yet not quite.

Lison de Caunes, the granddaughter of Art Deco designer André Groult, has not only kept this art alive, she has created fresh designs of her own using this traditional technique. “There are the very specific patterns from the Art Deco period, like the fan and the sunburst,” says de Caunes. “I’m trying to do other, more modern things.”

She makes furniture, decorative objects, wall panels, floor tiles, and doors using this ancient art. De Caunes is making her own twist on this traditional art by experimenting with bold, bright colors. It is a labor intensive, handmade process that can take months to complete, but the results are amazing and one of a kind. True works of art. “I give straw marquetry a new life.” And we couldn’t agree more. Absolutely exquisite.

Let us know in the comments which design speaks most to you! Do you prefer the natural colors or the brighter hues? There’s something about the look of the finished product that makes us want to reach out and run our fingers over the silkiness. If you ever find yourself in Paris, drop by her studio. She even offers workshops. We just might add this to our bucket list…

Interested in adding more straw-like details to your home? You just have to check out our post on wicker, jute, rush, and rattan, man!