Vikram Goyal
Formally unveiled at Vikram Goyal’s Studio in New Delhi on 23rd November, 2024, a striking trio of gilded designs created between Goyal and de Gournay reference the repoussé metal works of the former, while offering novel take on the latter’s traditional, hand-painted wallpapers.
Vikram Goyal’s work heralds back to ancient Indian narratives, traditions and philosophies, and he applies his knowledge of ancient texts and myths to the iconic English design house, de Gournay. A metal work technique dating back to the 3rd and 4th century BC, repoussé is a process in which artisans hammer low-relief designs into malleable metal sheets. This method was traditionally used in India to make temple doors and ceilings with devotional themes.
The collaboration showcases a meticulous collection of three exquisite designs inspired by the brass repoussé artworks, which de Gournay has transformed into stunning, bas-relief scenes on gilded paper – a technique achieved by rendering design elements in a special solution that creates a relief effect when heated. Previously unveiled at the de Gournay London showroom for the occasion of the PAD London fair, 2024, the New Delhi staging expanded on the interplay between the tactile intricacies of each brands work.
Inspired by last year’s ‘Dreamscape’ collection, the Dreamscape wallpaper depicts a range of auspicious symbols of good luck and faith, from the 17th century manuscript ‘Book of Dreams’, including the Gajaraja (King of Elephants), a tree of parrots, and other fabled beasts and animals.
The ‘Garden of Life’ pays respect to the splendour of the Silk Road through a representation of an exotic garden brought to life by lively fauna and vibrant flora.
The ‘Harmony of the Heavens’ wallpaper reflects the astral observatories of India through an interplay of geometric forms, composing a profound dialogue between the celestial instruments and the cosmos above.