Meret Oppenheim (1913-1985) was a Swiss artist and designer, best known for her contributions to the Surrealist movement. Born on October 6, 1913, in Berlin, Germany, Oppenheim grew up in a creative and intellectual environment. Her father, a German-Jewish doctor, encouraged her artistic pursuits from an early age.

Oppenheim's career took off in the early 1930s when she moved to Paris and became involved with the Surrealist group. She quickly gained recognition for her unique and provocative works that challenged traditional notions of art and femininity. One of her most famous pieces, and arguably her breakthrough work, is "Le Déjeuner en fourrure" (1936), also known as "The Fur Teacup." This sculpture, featuring a teacup, saucer, and spoon covered in fur, created a stir in the art world and solidified Oppenheim's reputation as a leading Surrealist artist.

Throughout her career, Oppenheim explored various mediums, including painting, sculpture, and collage. She often incorporated everyday objects into her works, transforming them into surreal and thought-provoking creations. Her art frequently explored themes of sexuality, identity, and the unconscious mind, reflecting the influence of Sigmund Freud's theories on the Surrealist movement.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Oppenheim also made significant contributions to the field of design. She collaborated with renowned furniture designer and architect, Wolfgang La Roche, on several projects. One of their notable collaborations was the creation of the "Meret Oppenheim Room" in the Museum of Applied Arts in Zurich, Switzerland. This room showcased Oppenheim's unique approach to interior design, combining elements of Surrealism with functional furniture pieces.

Oppenheim's work continues to inspire and influence artists and designers to this day. Her contributions to the Surrealist movement have left a lasting impact on the art world, challenging conventional boundaries and pushing the limits of artistic expression. Meret Oppenheim passed away on November 15, 1985, in Basel, Switzerland, but her legacy as a pioneering artist and designer lives on.