Eileen Gray (1878-1976) was born in Brownswood, Enniscorthy to a family of Scottish descent.  Today she is known for her modern minimalist furniture and architecture although her work also includes lacquer and more traditional pieces.  In 2009, her Frauteuil aux Dragons armchair sold for just under €22 million, setting an auction record.

 

 

 

 

 

She left Ireland when she was twenty to study in London and subsequently to live and work in France.

Her famous house, the E1027 in Roqubrune-Cap-Martin is currently being restored by the French government.

 

 

 

 

 

Her iconic circular bedside table and the Michelin Man chair (correctly known as the Bibendum) are recognisable as examples of modernist furniture design.

There are two permanent exhibitions of her work in Ireland, one at the National Museum of Ireland (Collins Barracks) and another at Enniscorthy Castle.