Jean Blanc

For the love of furniture

• Jean restores historical furniture dating back several centuries
• He trained in restoration as part of a career change in his thirties
• He is keen to pass on his passion for the craft

Jean Blanc is a master restorer who has been practising his craft with passion and dedication since the early 2000s. After a first career in the banking sector, he felt the need to 'get back to his roots' and rediscover woodworking, which he had briefly started as a young man. During his training in restoration, he met Sophie, his life and work partner, with whom he established the A l'Or et du Bois workshop. Founded in 2005, the atelier specialises in restoration of furniture and traditional gold leaf. From heritage furniture dating back to the 17th century to contemporary pieces, Jean’s expertise enables him to work on a wide variety of projects. "That is what I like about being a restorer: you get to work with very different eras, styles and artistic worlds," he comments.

Interview

©Vincent Baldensperger

©A l'or et du bois

Did you learn your craft from a master artisan?

After my training in cabinetmaking and before studying restoration, I worked for a restorer for nine months. This gave me an insider's view of the trade, as I was able to work on historic monuments, museum pieces and projects for individuals. Working directly on museum pieces required me to learn and master techniques very quickly.

Is there a specific technique or practice that you enjoy the most?

I would say that I like variety. I like the challenge: being questioned and being able to take on a project that I was not prepared for. I have in mind the restoration of a very high structure in a church I worked on. This type of large-scale challenge is what spices up our daily lives.

What was it like to establish your own atelier with your wife, Sophie?

When Sophie and I opened the atelier, we felt that a path was opening up for us. From the moment I changed my life and redirected my career, at no point did I feel like I was struggling. Things just flowed. We have always relied on that fluidity.

Did the fact that you offer gilding in addition to restoration make a difference to the workshop?

From day one, gilding has complemented the workshop's activities, and it is what has enabled us to keep going for 20 years. Without this contribution, we would not have been able to develop the workshop. It has given us greater visibility. Also, working together and listening to Sophie's opinion has always been very beneficial for me.

Jean Blanc is a master artisan: he began his career in 2005 and he started teaching in 2015

Where