This is Monocle on Design Extra.
It's a short show to accompany our weekly program where we discuss everything from architecture
and craft to furniture and graphic design.
I'm Mailie Evans.
Today we head to France to consider how the craft guilds of the past
and the French royal court have left an indelible mark on contemporary furniture producers today.
To reflect on the historic connection between French identity and furniture, here's Monocle's design editor, Nick.
I recently picked up a copy of National Dish, the latest book by US Food writer Anya von Bremzen.
It explores culinary culture across the globe, delving deep into the connections between cuisine and country.
And it starts with a look at Francis Pot au Feu.
The dish, which features broth, meat and vegetables,
has its roots in the French monarchy and King Henry IV's promise to ensure
that every household could have a hen in its pot once a week.
And it's in this spirit that the book has inspired me to explore the link between furniture and France.
In galleries and showrooms across the French capital,
design enthusiasts will find wares from the likes of designer Harald Molle,
lighting brand Yali, and gallery furniture house TRM Editions.
The works from these contemporary French brands are united by the use of curved lines and asymmetrical forms,
executed with a sophistication that celebrates the skills of the makers.
Even the works of the country's more demure designers,