Argo

Argo - born under a lucky star: a birth bed that combines copper with walnut wood to insulate the child against electromagnetic waves. When closed, it forms a breathing cell that filters light and electromagnetic waves (WiFi, GSM...). Like the mythological vessel of Jason and the Argonauts, it is a protective case and a reassuring refuge. The fruit of a close collaboration between the cabinetmakers at Atelier Ludwig & Dominique and the designers at Studio Noir Vif, Argo is a laboratory object that opens up new horizons forcontemporary cabinetmaking through its design and the new techniques it explores.

Argo was designed under the auspices of the ancient constellation Argo Navis. The three main parts of the boat are named after the three subsections of this ancient constellation: the hull (Carina), the stern (Puppis) and the sail (Vela). A secret detail: the constellation is depicted in straw marquetry on the inside of the stern. Installing a copper network on the curved walnut surface of the stern was a major technological and scientific challenge. It would not have been possible without the help of the MINES Paristech Materials Research Laboratory, Saint-Gobain's Coating Solutions Division and the support of the Carnot Network. The copper pattern on the stern's double-curved surface was produced by thermal flame spraying and a specially developed masking process.

Combining an innovative approach with a work of excellence, this birth bed is exemplary and a testament to the vivacity of today's creativity.

Winner of the Liliane Bettencourt Prize for Hand Intelligence in 2019