PARCHMENT
The Timeless Elegance of Parchment and Vellum
Parchment, also referred to as vellum, has long symbolized luxury, artisanal mastery, and refined design. Made from the skin of animals, most often goats or sheep, this material offers a smooth, durable surface with subtle texture. Its natural origin gives it warmth and character, making it ideal for high-end furniture, bespoke lighting, and decorative objects. This handcrafted animal hide connects modern interiors with centuries of artisanal tradition.
From Animal Skin to Masterpiece
Creating fine vellum begins with selecting the highest-quality skins. Artisans clean, stretch, and treat each piece to achieve a resilient, smooth finish. They then cut, dye, and layer it on furniture panels, boxes, or lampshades. Every stage requires patience, precision, and intimate knowledge of the material. This meticulous process ensures that each creation meets the highest standards of luxury craftsmanship.
Enhancing Interiors with Handcrafted Surfaces
Vellum elevates interiors with its subtle elegance and tactile appeal. Custom panels, lampshades, and furniture inlays bring sophistication and warmth to any space. Its natural texture interacts beautifully with both natural and artificial light, producing soft shadows and a luminous effect. Integrating this luxury writing surface transforms ordinary interiors into timeless, elegant environments, blending functionality with artistry.
Art Deco Masters and Parchment
During the Art Deco period, designers such as André Arbus, Jacques Adnet, Jean-Michel Frank, Marc Du Plantier and Paul Dupré Lafon redefined the use of parchment. They incorporated it into luxury furniture, wall panels, screens, and further lighting fixtures, often combining vellum with leather, metals, and also exotic woods. Their work emphasized texture, light, and understated elegance, making vellum a signature element of Art Deco interiors. These designers highlighted its durability and tactile quality, establishing parchment as both a practical and decorative material that inspired generations of artisans.
› See a beautiful Jean-Michel Frank waterfall-shaped parchment coffee table.
› And also a Marc Du Plantier style desk.
Vosges: Contemporary Mastery of Parchment
At Vosges, we honor this tradition by crafting bespoke furniture, lighting, and decorative objects using vellum and other high-quality animal skins. Collaborating with France’s finest artisans, we combine historic techniques with modern design sensibilities. Each piece is meticulously stretched, cut, and finished to showcase the material’s natural warmth, translucence, and elegance. By blending timeless artistry, luxury interior design, and exceptional craftsmanship, Vosges transforms vellum into functional works of art. Every creation radiates sophistication, refinement, and contemporary luxury, bringing authenticity and brilliance to modern interiors.
› See also inspiring velum-covered furniture on our Pinterest page
