Story perspectives

Record $31.4 Million Sale: Lalanne's Hippo Bar Shines

12/11/2025

Summary

Story summary

François-Xavier Lalanne, the designer, saw Hippopotame Bar sell for $31.4 million at Sotheby’s New York, the most expensive design work ever sold.
Anne Schlumberger commissioned the 1976 copper prototype, which sparked a 26-minute bidding war among seven collectors.
The sale highlights growing global interest in functional art, with design sales up 20.4% year over year.
The piece includes hidden compartments, showcasing Lalanne's whimsy and technical skill.

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Story summary

François-Xavier Lalanne, the designer, saw Hippopotame Bar sell for $31.4 million at Sotheby’s New York, the most expensive design work ever sold.
Anne Schlumberger commissioned the 1976 copper prototype, which sparked a 26-minute bidding war among seven collectors.
The sale highlights growing global interest in functional art, with design sales up 20.4% year over year.
The piece includes hidden compartments, showcasing Lalanne's whimsy and technical skill.