“Hippopotame Bar” Sets New Records at Design Auction, Sells for $31.4 Million

François-Xavier Lalanne’s “Hippopotame Bar”

In 1976, celebrated French artist François-Xavier Lalanne designed a distinctive and playful piece known as the “Hippopotame Bar.” This remarkable bar, shaped like a hippopotamus, was a combination of hand-crafted copper, steel, and wood. More than just a stunning visual work, the bar was also practical, featuring concealed compartments that emerged from the hippo’s side, which included a rotating bottle rack, an ice bucket, and a food tray.

Commissioned initially by Anne Schlumberger, an heiress to an oil fortune and significant supporter of the arts, the “Hippopotame Bar” became a focal point for serving snacks such as chips and salsa. At a Sotheby’s auction on December 10, 2025, the bar fetched an incredible $31.4 million. This sale established a new benchmark, marking it as the most expensive design object ever sold at auction.

Lalanne had a fondness for hippopotamuses, which was evident in several of his creations. In 1992, he developed a life-size bronze hippo family, each hiding components of a bathroom set. Another acclaimed work, the “Rhinocrétaire I,” designed as a brass rhinoceros, included a concealed desk and storage. This piece had previously held the record for Lalanne’s auction prices.

The “Hippopotame Bar” stands out as the sole copper creation in Lalanne’s collection, acting as a prototype for a subsequent bronze version. The uniqueness and craftsmanship of this item contributed to its remarkable auction price, surpassing estimates by more than $20 million following a heated bidding contest.

The Schlumberger family noted that their collection, which includes the “Hippopotame Bar,” showcased Anne Schlumberger’s curiosity and diverse connections in art and design. The bar, embodying a spirit of whimsy and humor, was a reflection of her lively character.

For more information regarding the auction and Lalanne’s “Hippopotame Bar,” please visit the Sotheby’s website.