Jean Prouvé (1901-1984) was a remarkable French metal worker, engineer, and self-taught architect and designer, whose work significantly shaped 20th-century modernism by bridging the gap between craftsmanship and industrial production.

Born into an artistic family in Nancy, France, Prouvé initially trained as a blacksmith. This practical foundation in metalworking profoundly influenced his entire career. He opened his first workshop in 1923, initially producing wrought iron pieces, but quickly began experimenting with new technologies like electric welding and materials such as bent sheet steel.

Prouvé's core philosophy was that there was "no difference between constructing a piece of furniture and building a house." He believed in a "constructional philosophy" based on functionality, rational fabrication, and material efficiency. He focused on showcasing how objects were made, often leaving joints and connections visible, giving his designs an honest, industrial aesthetic. He aimed for "la justesse"—the accuracy of a thing—in both form and purpose.

In 1931, he established "Ateliers Jean Prouvé," where he produced lightweight metal furniture and architectural components. He often used thin, folded sheet metal to create strong yet light structures, a technique inspired by the automobile and aircraft industries. During and after World War II, his focus shifted towards prefabricated and modular structures to address housing shortages, designing emergency shelters and demountable houses.

Prouvé collaborated with other leading modernists like Le Corbusier and Charlotte Perriand, contributing to numerous projects. His furniture, such as the iconic Standard Chair (1934), Antony Chair (1954), and Compas Table, are still widely recognized and produced today by Vitra, highlighting their timeless design and innovative construction.

Throughout his career, Prouvé was more interested in the process of building and the social impact of design than in purely aesthetic concerns. He left an indelible mark on both architecture and furniture design, pioneering ideas of prefabrication, adaptability, and resource-conscious design that remain highly relevant today.