James Mont (1904-1978), a notorious mid-century designer and interior decorator, counted gangsters and movie stars among his clients. His bold, exotic, and often Chinese-inspired pieces stand out in decadent relief against a field of restrained modernism. 

Mont’s life and work, both shrouded in mystery, were a mind-boggling mixture of the louche and the luxurious.

From High Craft to High Glam: James Mont, 2013

James Mont is among the makers featured in Todd Merrill’s book Modern Americana: Studio Furniture from High Craft to High Glam (Rizzoli; expanded edition, 2018), the first full survey of American studio furniture. Signed copies are available from the gallery.