Couleur Nature

About Couleur Nature

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History of Couleur Nature

While traveling through Rajasthan, India, Paris based designer Bruno Lamy was introduced to the age-old technique of hand-block printing, an art form passed down from generation to generation. Impressed and inspired by the unique beauty of hand-made textiles using this technique, Mr. Lamy returned to Paris and began creating a visually enticing array of Provencal-inspired linens that has become known as Couleur Nature. Sold throughout Europe and North American, Couleur Nature has quickly become a household must for the sophisticated consumer.

The art of hand-block printing is an intricate and extensive process with over 100 studied movements. The local craftsmen, who have preserved this ancient tradition, use hand-carved teakwood blocks to carefully apply layers of rich shades of dye reflecting the myriad of colors found in nature. The cloths are washed and dried after each new colour is applied; once all of the colours have been applied, the fabric is cut and stitched accordingly. Inherent to this artisan process, tones and finish vary, thereby guaranteeing a unique and beautiful collection of linens.

Couleur Nature table linens are offered in a vibrant assortment of designs and sizes that suit a wide-range of personal styles and occasions. The versatility of our designs allows the linens to be used on formal or casual table settings year-round and are suitable for everyday use.

Mr. Lamy has been designing textiles for over two decades and is continually inspired by the response of the U.S. consumer. As a result of the high demand and admiration for these linens, two new prints are introduced each season in various colour ways and are interchangeable with previously introduced patterns.
“I am thrilled to share my discovery of this rich tradition with all of Europe and North America and hope you will enjoy the beauty and quality that is “Couleur Nature”.

-Bruno Lamy

Company Fact Sheet

Design Style
Couleur Nature / Mas d' Ousvan collections are designed by Bruno Lamy in his Paris based studio. Designs are inspired by the rich French traditions of Provence as well as the delicately beautiful French countryside. Our signature designs embrace the beauty of various floral, fruit, and fauna prints in a variety of vibrant and sophisticated styles with a touch of whimsy.

Production Facility
Our production facilities are located in Jaipur, India, a region known for its mystical climate and royal heritage. Jaipur is located in the northern region of India and is host to several well-established textile manufactures.

Printing Process
Couleur Nature/Mas d' Ousvan linens are made by hand using the ancient tradition of block printing, which has been passed down from generation to generation. Hand-carved blocks made from teakwood are used to apply a range of designs and vibrant coulours with more than 100 studied movements for each cloth. The cloth is then cut and stitched, creating a uniquely beautiful appearence.

Distribution
Couleur Nature/ Mas d' Ousvan table linen and bedding collection are available in high-end boutiques and specialty retail stores throughout the United States. Various collections have been featured in large-scale retail shops and catalogs such as Tommy Bahama, Sur La Table, Williams Sonoma and Sundance Catalog.

Collections
New Couleur Nature / Mas d' Ousvan collections are introduced twice per year:
Spring/Summer, debuted in January
Fall/Winter, debuted in July

The Couleur Nature Definition

Definition
The term “boutis” is a Provencal word for the corded or quilted needlework used for petticoats, bedcovers, and infant lap pieces. Boutis, is also known as a blunt-nose needle used to draw cording through narrow channels. We commonly use the term today to describe the limited distribution of traditional Provencal handwork. Boutis, should not be confused with the term “cotton pique” which means industrially woven.

History
The history of boutis stems from the nineteenth century’s great change in the look of Provencal quilting. Professional needlewomen began to produce work for local households instead of primary export; the result was distinctive from the work formerly done in professional ateliers.

Workmanship
Mas d’ Ousvan, as well as many French quilting companies all over Europe, manufacture in India. In order to maintain the consistency of design, workmanship, and quality Mas d’ Ousvan has partnered with the most exclusive artisans. Mr. Lamy hand inspects each detail of the creative process from beginning to end. The close inspection is evident in the high quality of the cotton, the expert hand stitching, and the “antique” looks of each coverlet.

Care/Use
Because of the thought and workmanship going into each piece, care for the Mas d’ Ousvan Collection is simple. To preserve the exquisite appearance of each article, it should be washed in warm water and tumble-dried. Each Mas d’ Ousvan piece can be enjoyed as a coverlet, table linen, or throw.

Mas d’ Ousvan
Today Bruno Lamy has created a beautiful collection that merges his own designs with the traditions of Provence. Each season Mr. Lamy will introduce a new collection of boutis with varied patterns and color stories. “My desire is for the American customer to experience the sophisticated couture of Provencal quilting,” states Lamy.