Michel Zadounaisky

Born on March 10, 1903, in Ekaterinodar, in the Russian Empire, Michel Zadounaïsky came into the world in an émigré family. His parents fled the turmoil of their homeland to join France in 1916, when Michel was just thirteen years old. This migration shaped the young man who was destined to become a multifaceted artist.

In Lyon, a hub of artistic vibrancy, Michel briefly enrolled at the School of Fine Arts. However, it was in the workshops of the Fournet lighting factory that he discovered his passion for wrought iron. From 1920 to 1924, he learned to master this metal, forging his identity as a craftsman-sculptor.

In 1924, he opened his first workshop in Lyon. From that point on, he established himself as one of the few blacksmiths to assert himself as a sculptor, transcending mere craftsmanship to infuse his works with soul. The salons of Lyon, including the metallurgy exhibition, became his first stages for showcasing his art. Each piece he presented, whether it was an ornate radiator cover or a floor lamp adorned with serpentine motifs, reflected his ingenuity and attention to detail.

Zadounaïsky’s work flourished in a bestiary of fantastical animals, where marine and terrestrial fauna intertwined with the imagination. His creations, such as the door featuring an upright cobra or the grilles embellished with animal motifs, captivated a diverse clientele, ranging from private individuals to public institutions. His style, influenced by Art Deco, was characterized by intricate plant patterns and astonishing animal forms.

World War II interrupted his journey. As a foreign volunteer, he served his country, documenting his impressions through drawings that showcased his keen perspective on the world. Upon returning to Lyon, he resumed his activities, creating iconic pieces such as the entrance grille of the Hôtel de Gadagne and the grille of the Museum of Printing, which left a significant mark on the artistic landscape of Lyon.

In 1948, after years of efforts, he obtained French nationality, sealing his fate as an artist integrated into French culture. His career flourished until 1973, the year he closed his workshop, “Temps heureux,” but his legacy endures.

Michel Zadounaïsky passed away in 1983 in La Hauteville. His journey, a testament to a life dedicated to art and craftsmanship, embodies the idea that wrought ironwork is much more than just a trade: it is a passion, a way of life.