Jean PROUVE Architectural element in aluminium and glass from the façade of the Lycée de Bagnols-sur-Cèze, part of an isothermal curtain wall. Approx. 110 x 172 cm When Jean Prouvé took over the management of CIMT (Compagnie Industrielle de Matériel de Transport, acquired by Alsthom in 1983) in 1957, he worked to expand the company's business to include public construction contracts. Significant resources were deployed to scrupulously implement the architectural principles developed by Jean Prouvé in his previous companies. The invention of lightweight façades in folded metal or extruded aluminium that could be fixed directly to the concrete, making it possible to build public buildings such as hospitals, schools, etc. quickly and with impeccable finishes, met with great success.