Max Ingrand

A Visionary in Art, Stained Glass, and Modern Design

Max Ingrand (1908-1969) was a celebrated French designer, decorator, and glassworker, renowned for his transformative contributions to interior design, lighting, and furniture. Born in Bressuire, France, Ingrand trained as a stained glass artist before broadening his scope to encompass various design fields. He studied at the École Nationale Supérieure des Beaux-Arts and École Nationale Supérieure des Arts Décoratifs in Paris, mentored by esteemed glass artists Jacques Grüber and Charles Lemaresquier.

Ingrand’s expertise in stained glass brought him significant acclaim, particularly his work in replacing 47 windows of Notre-Dame de Paris that were destroyed during World War II. This project highlighted his mastery in the medium and reinforced his status as a leading figure in modern art. However, his influence extended far beyond stained glass.

Left to right; Max Ingrand stained glass window in the St. Ulrich church. Altenstadt. Wissembourg. Christ in Glory, St. Dominic’s Church in San Francisco. The arrest of Joan of Arc. Notre-Dame de Rouen Cathedral.

In the 1950s, Ingrand became the artistic director of FontanaArte, an Italian design company known for its elegant lamps and glass furniture. During his tenure, he produced iconic pieces that combined traditional craftsmanship with modern aesthetics, establishing himself as a pioneer in lighting and furniture design. His creations, characterized by their exquisite craftsmanship and innovative use of glass, exemplify his unique ability to blend functionality with elegance.

Ingrand’s work in interior design further cemented his reputation as an influential modern artist. He left a lasting impact on mid-century modern design, inspiring contemporary designers and shaping the aesthetic of an era. Today, his creations are highly sought after by collectors and design professionals, with his popularity continuing to rise. Max Ingrand’s legacy as a visionary artist endures, celebrated for his contributions to multiple fields of modern art.