Behind Eileen handmade glass…
Breaking barriers in design and in the society.
In the world of design, Eileen Gray stands as a pioneering figure whose influence transcends time, and so today, we proudly introduce you to that woman who has inspired one of our bestseller products: Eileen handmade glass.
Eileen Gray is not as well known as many of her male modernist peers; she was however so much more than just a designer; she was a visionary, a trailblazer, and a feminist icon ahead of her time. Born in 1878 in Ireland, Gray defied societal expectations and carved her path in the male-dominated world of architecture and design. In an era when women were often relegated to the sidelines, Gray fearlessly pursued her passion for creativity and innovation.
Throughout her illustrious career, Gray challenged conventions and redefined the boundaries of design. From her iconic furniture pieces to her groundbreaking architectural projects, she infused her work with a unique blend of functionality, elegance, and artistic expression. Gray's designs were not merely objects; they were statements of individuality and empowerment.
See examples of her work …
Despite finding appreciation and recognition for her work during the 1920s and '30s, Eileen Gray's reserved personality prevented her from actively promoting her own creations. Reflecting on her career, she lamented, "I was not a pusher, and perhaps that's why I didn't achieve the recognition I deserved."
Moreover, Gray faced the challenge of having her contributions overshadowed or misattributed. Particularly notable was the case of her iconic E.1027 house, where credit was sometimes erroneously given to Jean Badovici, her partner at the time. While Badovici provided technical advice, Gray was the driving force behind the design and construction of the house, as well as all its furnishings and fixtures. It was also wrongly attributed by some to Le Corbusier who was meant to be a friend yet their relationship soured when, without Gray's knowledge or consent, Le Corbusier painted eight large Cubist frescoes on the walls of E.1027 while visiting as a guest of Badovici, moreover he did so naked, to add to the insult.
One of Gray's most enduring legacies is her commitment to breaking down barriers and advocating for gender equality in the design industry. She refused to be constrained by traditional gender roles and demanded recognition for her talents on equal footing with her male counterparts. In doing so, Gray paved the way for future generations of female designers to follow their dreams and make their mark on the world. She mentored and supported aspiring female designers, empowering them to pursue their passions and defy the limitations imposed by gender stereotypes. As an openly bisexual woman in the early 20th century, Gray defied societal expectations and embraced her identity with courage and authenticity. Her unapologetic embrace of her sexuality was a revolutionary act in an era when LGBTQ+ individuals faced widespread discrimination and persecution.
Living and laboring in solitude for three decades, Eileen Gray remained quietly dedicated to her craft. It wasn't until the late 1960s and early 1970s that collectors and critics began to rediscover her work. By the time of her passing in 1976, at the remarkable age of 98, she had once again captured the design world's attention, reclaiming her status as a sensation in the field.
At Lagom, we draw inspiration from Gray's boldness, creativity, and unwavering determination. The Eileen handmade glass embodies her spirit of empowerment and celebrates her legacy as a feminist icon.
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