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From its visionary beginnings under the leadership of Robert Four to its current international renown, the Robert Four Manufacture embodies the perfect blend of tradition and modernity. Rooted in the artisanal heritage of Aubusson, this family business has evolved over the decades while staying true to its core values: excellence, creativity, and the transmission of know-how. Through the key milestones of its history, discover how the Robert Four Manufacture has left its mark on the world of tapestry in France and beyond, opening new horizons in contemporary art and popular culture.
After founding the Société Robert Four for Decorative Fabric Design in Paris at the age of 25, Robert Four unveiled a distinguished Parisian gallery in 1967, dedicated to the creation, curation, and sale of exquisite decorative fabrics. The maison masterfully combined heritage craftsmanship with avant-garde innovation, collaborating with illustrious designers and introducing groundbreaking techniques, such as screen-printed tapestries, to elevate the art of decoration.
In 1969, Robert Four acquired the intimate Simone André workshop, relocating it to a charming historic mill on the idyllic banks of the Creuse in Aubusson. This enchanting setting was reimagined as a sanctuary of artisanal excellence, where timeless techniques met bold innovation. It was here that the art of crafting extraordinary tapestries began, destined to adorn and elevate the world’s most elegant and sophisticated interiors.
In 1985, the Robert Four Manufacture inaugurated its own exclusive dyeing atelier, a defining moment that allowed for the flawless customization of each hue with unparalleled precision. Through the mastery of the three primary colors – red, yellow, and blue – the artisan dyer conjures an exquisite spectrum of bespoke shades, perfectly tailored to the refined vision of each project. This milestone empowered the Robert Four Manufacture to oversee every element of creation, from concept to realization, ensuring a level of craftsmanship and quality that is second to none.
The Manufacture Robert Four inaugurated its first atelier in Tunisia, located in Ezzahra near Tunis-Carthage, a momentous venture born from an extraordinary encounter with Mohamed Gorbel, a young Tunisian artisan trained at the prestigious Aubusson School of Decorative Arts. This new atelier marked a harmonious blend of tradition and contemporary influences, bringing together the craftsmanship of Aubusson and the artistic flair of Tunisian artisans. The result was the creation of masterful works that retain their exclusive elegance while becoming more accessible, blending heritage with contemporary artistry in perfect harmony.
Guided by a forward-thinking vision steeped in family values, Pierre-Olivier Four took the reins of the Manufacture in 1996, infusing it with a dynamic energy that continues to redefine the standards of luxury craftsmanship. Under his leadership, the Manufacture has flourished, embracing innovative ways to elevate the timeless art of tapestry. He has cultivated an exceptional, fully integrated artisan process, where master designers, pattern makers, dyers, weavers, and seamstresses, each dedicated to unparalleled excellence, collaborate to create works of extraordinary refinement and elegance.
In 2006, the Robert Four Manufacture was bestowed with the prestigious Entreprise du Patrimoine Vivant label, a testament to its unwavering commitment to preserving exceptional artisanal traditions and its pivotal role in enhancing French heritage. This honor was further reinforced in 2018 with the addition of the Indication Géographique label, which celebrates the authenticity and unparalleled quality of its creations, while highlighting the company’s deep-rooted connection to its region and its unique savoir-faire.
Aware of the importance of passing this heritage on to future generations, Pierre-Olivier established the CAP “Art of Carpets and Tapestry of the Loom” in 2007. This initiative not only ensures the continued employment in a region in decline but also secures the preservation of the prestigious Aubusson craftsmanship for years to come.
In 2009, UNESCO recognized Aubusson tapestry as part of its Representative List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity, drawing on the expertise preserved by Robert Four to compile its inventory. This prestigious recognition highlights the vibrant community of artisans who maintain this woven tradition, celebrating the intricate work of weavers interpreting artist designs, as well as the contributions of other craftsmen such as spinners, dyers, and pattern makers, who all play a vital role in perpetuating this exceptional craftsmanship.
In 2013, Patricia Racine joined the Manufacture as Artistic Director, bringing her unparalleled expertise in luxury and contemporary art to refine and modernize the creations, while preserving their esteemed heritage. Her visionary approach led to prestigious collaborations with eminent artists such as Christian Astuguevieille and Pierre Marie, as well as renowned designers like Pierre Yovanovitch and India Mahdavi. These partnerships not only elevated the Manufacture’s artistic reputation but also solidified its position as a symbol of exceptional craftsmanship and exclusivity on the international stage.
In 2022, Pierre-Olivier Four acquired the prestigious Neolice atelier, a leader in digital tapestry, marking a bold new chapter in the Manufacture’s legacy. This acquisition propels the brand into a realm of innovation, blending cutting-edge technology with centuries-old craftsmanship. The integration of digital tapestry opens a world of new creative possibilities, enabling the Manufacture to engage with the contemporary art scene and create bespoke woven masterpieces that redefine the art of tapestry for the modern era.
Firmly rooted in modernity, the Manufacture Robert Four celebrates not only the timeless beauty of Classic Style and Contemporary Art but also embraces the vibrant world of Pop Culture, weaving the imagination of new generations. The Manufacture brings these cultural realms to life through monumental works, such as the 2023 tapestry dedicated to Japanese film director Hayao Miyazaki, inspired by his iconic Spirited Away in collaboration with Studio Ghibli, as well as an extraordinary carpet based on the legendary works of J.R.R. These masterpieces transcend traditional boundaries, redefining the art of tapestry for today’s world.
Above all, Manufacture Robert Four is committed to the transmission of its savoir-faire. We are training a new generation of craftsmen and women, from cartoonists to weavers. They are living proof of the new ways of thinking about the use of materials and color here in Aubusson, and, thanks to their skill and dedication, they are reinventing the Aubusson tradition!
Aux Verdures
Manufacture Robert Four