Jeff Koons x Bernardaud: a porcelain lobster fetches €102,000

An inflatable lobster turned into fine porcelain: it seemed like a crazy gamble. However, Bernardaud has taken up the challenge with Jeff Koons and created a rare piece. The project brings together contemporary art, French know-how and the desire to collect.

Bernardaud and Jeff Koons: the porcelain lobster, a pop symbol

The collaboration takes on a cultural and culinary icon: the lobster. Jeff Koons transposes his playful language to the noble material of porcelain. Bernardaud orchestrates production in its workshops, with precise controls. As a result, each piece gains a clear visual presence and long-lasting hold.

The sculpture takes up the inflatable effect so dear to the artist, but in hard form. The lustre of the porcelain produces sharp reflections that bring volumes to life. What’s more, the vivid hues require stable, repeated firing. The result brings together humor, technique and Limoges heritage.

The edition remains calibrated for discerning collectors. Its criteria are rarity, traceability and finish. On the other hand, the object is designed to live in the home, not just in storage. This choice reinforces the link between domestic design and museum art.

“When art plays with matter, precision transforms fantasy into evidence.”

Manufacturing and heritage: when the Limoges workshop shapes lobster

Modelling, moulding, casting, glazing, each stage follows a specific protocol. In this way, the shape gains in stability, despite the curves and antennae. The craftsmen adjust the recesses during firing to maintain the pop allure. The lobster retains its light spirit, in a durable structure.

The decor goes through several passes in the kiln, according to the color chart. Joints are also checked with a magnifying glass to avoid any discrepancies. Final polishing enhances the shine without weighing down the surface. This rigor makes the imprint of hands and kilns visible.

• Limited edition of 99 copies announced
• 5 artist’s proofs for the artist and the studio
• Porcelain shaped and fired according to a precision protocol
• Collaboration between a major artist and a Limoges house
• Positioning at a collector’s price in an international segment

Art market: value, rarity and desire around lobster

The art editions segment is looking for clear, signed pieces. Here, the series measures its strength by rarity and consistency. What’s more, Jeff Koons’ collector base follows these launches. The porcelain lobster therefore arrives with an already active demand.

Bernardaud – Lobster by Jeff Koons
Porcelain sculpture – Limited edition of 99 and 5 artist’s proofs – Announced retail price 102,000 euros.

Pricing is aimed at enthusiasts already committed to this niche. As a result, purchases are made over the long term, with assurance. The packaging ensures safe transport and careful presentation. This attention to detail reduces risk and protects the overall value.

Use, care and display of porcelain lobsters

The piece is installed away from narrow passageways and vibrations. A stable base and soft light are all that’s needed for its aura. Microfibre dusting keeps the enamels bright. The lobster then gains a lively presence, without heavy constraints.

For safety, we protect the finer areas by distance. Art object insurance is also a useful reflex. Technical data sheets guide hanging and dismantling. This simple framework secures the work and reassures loved ones.

Cultural and technical references that feed the piece

Jeff Koons works the tension between toy and sculpture. The eye hesitates between lightness and precision. Porcelain imposes a gravity that structures this ambiguity. This dialogue fuels interest, from the living room to the white cube.

In the workshop, mastery of the firing process remains central. Moreover, pigments react according to the temperature curve. Preliminary tests set the right printing thresholds. This mapping guarantees repeatability without betraying intent.

The limited series establishes a community of buyers, galleries and institutions. On the other hand, it leaves room for further development. Feedback from assembly and logistics feeds improvement. This virtuous cycle anchors the piece in a demanding network.

A hobbyist’s perspective: questions to ask before buying

How much space should the room have, and how much light should there be at dusk? That way, you can avoid harsh reflections on the enamels. What’s the overall budget, including transport, insurance and taxes? Lobsters only fit into a coherent whole.

Which collection horizon, between design, pop art and ceramics? A coherent theme also enhances the reading of an ensemble. How much time is needed for handling operations? A simple plan avoids rushing through exchanges.

Why this lobster speaks to today’s audience

The motif relates to play, the table and celebration. In this way, the object attracts different audiences, from the kitchen to the museum. The porcelain lends credibility to the wink, but doesn’t freeze it. The lobster circulates between conversation and contemplation.

The market is looking for legible stories and proof of care. And the Limoges company embodies this technical foundation. The artist brings a pop grammar that is immediately recognized. This alliance creates a trustworthy, visible and lasting value.

Finally, the international context maintains an appetite for icons. As a result, distribution is supported by solid players. Publishing figures limit access and desire. The lobster thus becomes a clear landmark for collectors.

• lobster