Newly certified "Appraisal and Insurance Experts" visit the Antiques Fair. As a member of the Furniture and Precious Objects Department of Union d'Experts, we have an appointment to visit the 28th Biennale des Antiquaires in Paris. It is a very famous historical place. The space of the Grand Palais hosts galleries of Antiques, Fine Arts and Jewelry.
Gery Steenkiste, Laurence Lagrange, Philippe Jamault, Cécile Agu and two Experts Vol Valerie Picoulet, Corinne Délicati represent the firms Labouze and Furnion. Our talented guide FREDERIC ELKAIM, co-founder of the Franco-Swiss Circle of Art Collectors and Amateurs, will accompany us.
The huge glass and metal dome gives a breathtaking dimension when you enter the Palais for the first time, which was my case. The scriptwriter Nathalie Crinière has perfectly succeeded in giving an expression of timelessness to the place by the distribution of the aisles and the visibility of each participant in a "sober and contemporary spirit" desired by the new team of the Syndicat National des Antiquaires led by Dominique Chevalier.
A privileged dialogue of the group with the gallery owner on the theme of one or two outstanding works of his universe presented.
The idea is to discuss market trends with galleries and specialized dealers through our guide.
We have therefore met the most important gallery owners. They gave us the best welcome. In particular, the master paintings, Alice Frech, at www.dejonckeheere-gallery.com.
David Langeois, historian, explains the origin of the 18th century woodwork and bronze sconces in the Steinitz gallery. Further on, Carolle Thibaut-Pomerantz, wallpaper specialist, www.antique-wallpaper.com gives us back the taste of refined atmospheres.
The Daniel Templon gallery, present for the first time at the exhibition, is celebrating its fiftieth anniversary. That is why they present only Parisian works from 1966. Thus we find those of its launching year, in the taste of its founder. Finally in front of his visionary choices, we measure today the pioneer of the conceptual art he was. Only 21 years old, he starts in a cellar of a Parisian antique dealer.
The organization of this world-renowned event rests on the shoulders of enthusiasts.
According to the specialized press, 123 exhibitors and nearly 4300 objects were presented. These were selected by a committee of 15 personalities. This selection or still called "vetting" allows a greater transparency and a control by the services of the Group of French insurers for the identification, the research and the recovery of the declared stolen movable goods.
As agreed, the overall vision of this presentation gives an exceptional idea of what is best on the art market. Indeed, the difference in prices can reach several million euros, which instantly puts one's feet back on the ground.
During the lunch break, we had a privileged moment with Mrs. Chevalier-PAZZI Nicole, who honored us by sharing her family history of 3 generations of art dealers in antique tapestries.
To conclude, this artistic event was expected due to the more tense economic and security circumstances. However, art lovers, collectors and dealers were well represented to make Paris shine at its firmament. We can't wait to come back next year as the biennial will be organized every year and the program from September 12 to 17 has already been announced.
