Jim de Missolz

Metalworker

©Ateliers J. de Missolz

A journey into the past

Jim’s iron workshop dates to 1893
He trains at Les Compagnons du Devoir
His workshop earned "Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant”

Jim de Missolz is a blacksmith-locksmith specialising in fine locksmithing and furniture. In his historic atelier located in the 7th arrondissement of Paris, he perpetuates the savoir-faire of iron craft with a unique expertise. He works with the greatest decorators and ministries who commission him to restore and create metalwork for them, as well as with a network of private clients. Jim started to learn the profession at the age of 16, when he entered Les Compagnons du Devoirs et du Tour de France. After ten years of rigorous training throughout France and Canada, his encounter with Monsieur Bonpunt led him to the great challenge of succeeding the master artisan and taking over his workshop: the last iron working atelier in Paris.

Interview

©Ateliers J. de Missolz

©Ateliers J. de Missolz

When did you first think of picking up this craft?: When I was a child, my uncle, a blacksmith, introduced me to the iron craft and the material forged by fire. These smells and his gestures have always made an impression on me.
Did you learn the profession from a master?: Each company allowed me to learn a little more each year until I had a complete apprenticeship. However, it was when I took over Mr Bonpunt's workshop that I learned a lot from him during a two-year apprenticeship. I would like to thank him again for giving me this opportunity.
Do you train apprentices?: Of course, every year since the creation of my company, I have taken on one apprentice per year and the door remains open to all kinds of interns. Passing skills and knowledge on to young people is crucial. I give back what I was given when I was younger. It is part of the journeyman's career path.
How do you express tradition and innovation in your work?: By using different styles according to the times. The sections used, the assemblies, the mastery of the techniques employed make it possible to apply to the creation of work corresponding to modern demands.

Jim de Missolz is a master artisan: he began his career in 2003 and he started teaching in 2014