In a captivating display of artistry, the four-storey Hermès flagship store at Liat Towers has transformed its storefront window into a whimsical chess game. Titled ‘Checkmate at the Faubourg’, this enchanting installation draws inspiration from the maison’s 2024 theme: The Spirit of the Faubourg.
Renowned artist Matthieu Cossé has masterfully reimagined iconic architectural elements of Hermès’s global flagship in Paris into vibrant chess pieces. The balusters of the building have become pawns, while the rooftop artificer has been transformed into a bishop, his horse serving as a knight.
Cossé’s artistic vision has resulted in a mesmerizing display that blurs the lines between reality and fantasy. The chessboard, reminiscent of Lewis Carroll’s ‘Through the Looking Glass’, invites viewers into a world of imagination and enchantment.
This installation is a testament to Hermès’s long-standing tradition of transforming window displays into works of art. Over the years, selected stores across the world have showcased captivating installations, each with its unique narrative and artistic expression.
Matthieu Cossé’s artistic journey began with his fascination for comics and prehistoric cave drawings. His collaboration with Hermès has been instrumental in awakening his interest in decorative arts, providing him with a newfound clarity and purpose in his creative practice.
The ‘Checkmate at the Faubourg’ installation is a testament to the power of collaboration. Cossé’s work, brought to life with the support of the entire Hermès team, reflects a collective vision and a shared passion for creativity. It is an invitation to immerse oneself in a world of wonder and imagination, where the boundaries of reality and fantasy intertwine.
