Maria Pergay

Born in 1930 in Iași, Romania.

Lives and works in Paris, France.

Maria Pergay is a French designer whose work occupies a unique place in the history of twentieth-century design. Known for her innovative use of stainless steel, often combined with noble materials such as wood, leather, or silver, she merges industrial precision with sensual, sculptural form. Her practice, situated at the intersection of design and art, is distinguished by its timeless elegance and experimental spirit.

Active since the late 1950s, Pergay created iconic pieces such as the Ring Chair (1968) and the Diabolo Bed, which reflect her fascination with fluid lines and meticulous craftsmanship. Often producing custom-made furniture for private clients and collectors, she helped shape the international recognition of postwar French design.

Her work has been exhibited widely across Europe, the United States, and the Middle East, including at the Metropolitan Museum of Art, New York; the Musée des Arts Décoratifs, Paris; Demisch Danant Gallery, New York; and Galerie Mitterrand, Paris. Her creations are held in major public and private collections worldwide, affirming her status as a pioneering figure of contemporary design.