Antoine Vautier

A seasoned restorer as good as gold

• Antoine masters a wide range of furniture restoration techniques
• He once worked on pieces used at the Elysée by the French President at the time
• He teams up with other specialised artisans such as upholsterers, gilders and menders

Antoine Vautier is a master in restoration and conservation of antique furniture. He trained at renowned schools in France and has been practising his craft since the late 1990s. Over the years, he has mastered multiple and diverse techniques, both traditional and modern, such as engraving and marquetry. Imparting his savoir-faire and skills is important to Antoine. Under his tutelage, one of his apprentices won the golden medal at the Best Apprentices in France competition, a prestigious national award. Antoine also works with other craftspeople to complement his work to offer comprehensive results. Through collaborations, he and his team have worked on important pieces requiring complex work such as three pieces used at the Elysée Palace, which took 400 hours to restore. In 2024, Antoine was awarded the EPV label of excellence in French craftsmanship.

Interview

©AurelieCoudiere

©emmatitia

How did you learn your craft?

I first trained as an apprentice with the Compagnons du Devoir du Tour de France followed by a training in BTM, then a specialisation in restoration and conservation at the Greta des Arts Appliqués de l'École Boulle, and finally a training in ornamental engraving.

How long does it take to become a restorer?

Although the initial theoretical training only lasts three years, a seasoned professional can only really present themselves as an expert after a dozen years of workshop experience with a great variety of exceptional furniture.

What is a memorable moment in your career?

I took one of my apprentices of five years to the competition for the best apprentice in France. The biggest challenge for me was to support him technically and emotionally until he won the national gold medal without working on his piece myself, and only passing on my know-how.

Who do you work with usually?

I work with institutions, private collectors, owners of everyday or exceptional objects, and professional art dealers.

Antoine Vautier is a master artisan: he began his career in 1996 and he started teaching in 2008

Where