Grille From Castel Henriette

Built in Hauts-de-Seine for the widow Caroline Henriette Leopoldine Hefty, the Castel Henriette was Guimard's last project of the 19th century and a fine example of early French Art Nouveau architecture. The use of contrasting areas of masonry and timber contributes as much to its picturesque quality as the complex roofline of terraces, chimneys, loggias and a tower. Wrought iron balconies, window grilles, balustrades, and a fence were among the unifying features of the facades. In this window grille, the individual members are slender and their placement is asymmetrical, alluding to the randomness of the woodsy surroundings. The design melds straight, curving and angular lines into a dynamic yet harmonious composition. Castel Henriette was demolished in 1969, and only a small portion of its exterior decor was salvaged.