Place Vendome, 12
"LIVING FOR JOSEPHINE! THERE IS THE HISTORY OF MY LIFE ...", - EMPEROR NAPOLEON I BONAPART OF ITS LOVED IN 1796 Wrote. The letters of the conqueror of Europe have become a magnificent example of love lyricism for many generations.
Beatrice de Plineval
Director of External Relations of the Paris Chaumet Museum
The jewelery masterpieces of the French House of Chaumet, one of the first customers of which this historical couple was, became the same high example of fine art. Art is eternal, and today jewelers pay tribute to the era of the Parisian style and their outstanding fans. In September, at the XXVI Biennale des Antiquaires Biennale, an important event in the world of art, the Chaumet collection will be presented under the name "12 Vendome". Its name refers us to a corner of the French capital, where lovers of brilliant beauty come for new inspiration for more than a century. In magnificent tiaras, bracelets and necklaces - French classicism and modernity, elegance and superior taste, genuine aristocracy and charm.
House Chaumet, however, is passionate not only about creating masterpieces. This is one of the few brands that writes its own high-style encyclopedia. Beatrice de Plinval, museum curator and director of external relations of the Paris Chaumet museum, told us about the special philosophy of jewelry, brand values and innovation, as well as about the most unique collection.
Ms. Beatrice, you came to Chaumet House after graduating from an art school and initiated the creation of a brand museum. Why did you choose him to start your career?
I started my career in a design studio. Over 15 years of work, I realized how rich the Chaumet heritage is, including in terms of creativity. The house has accumulated a huge amount of knowledge, reflected in its style, high craftsmanship and prestigious clients.
When did you feel the passion for jewelry completely captivated you?
When you work and live for a brand like Chaumet, you involuntarily fall in love with gems.
As a representative and historian of the brand, what do you consider to be its greatest achievement?
Of course, the creation of the museum and the heritage conservation program that I have developed over 35 years. They were created at a time when few people cared for these things, and the history of jewelry itself was not widely known.
Please tell us more about the Biennale des Antiquaires Biennale, which will be held in Paris from September 14 to 23? What do you plan to present as part of this event?
This biennale is the main event, and we are making our large-scale contribution to its holding. Parisian jewelry reflects the highest level of craftsmanship. Collection “12 Vendome” - 12 jewelry sets (pairs), created specifically for this event. They reflect 12 aspects of our style, in particular, tiaras - real works of art and the emblem of the House. It also demonstrates how great we work with droplet diamonds and a tapestry encrusted with precious stones. For example, the headset "12" is the crown of the collection and a reflection of our eccentric side.
Can you recall which exhibition was the most difficult? Or what interesting events at Chaumet House were directly related to the exhibition?
In 1998, the exhibition "Chaumet Paris, two centuries of creativity" was held at the Carnival Museum in Paris. On this occasion, the largest museums in the world agreed to present their exhibits. And along with this, an exhibition of the history of Parisian taste and jewelry owners themselves was held. Their portraits were presented. For example, a portrait of Napoleon Bonaparte when he was First Consul with a consular sword painted by the artist Antoine Grou. This sword was adorned by Regent, the largest diamond of the French crown, by Francois Reno Nito himself, the founder of Chaumet House.
Another example is the photograph of Countess Bessborough, taken in 1931 by Yusuf Karsh, with a tiara of Marcel Chaumet, created from platinum and diamonds, including a diamond weighing 5.64 carats.
What makes Chaumet trade shows so different? And whose opinion is most valuable to you in their preparation and planning?
Our exhibitions send us to the great historical figures and the impact they had on world fashion and style: Napoleon Bonaparte, Josephine Beauharnais, Maria Louise of Austria, Duchess of Berry, Tsar Alexander I and many others. The history of our House is so rich that we can develop completely different themes and devote expositions to tiaras, our "sentimental" decorations, day and evening headsets, the Eastern period or the art deco style ... Exhibitions should be educational, historical, scientific and glamorous, from dreams and beauty.
What is the foundation of success for the 230-year-old Chaumet brand?
Throughout its history, Chaumet House has always been an innovator. This is the only way to maintain your level of competence and retain prestigious customers.
Are you planning to publish a book on the history of the House?
Today I am working on a project to reprint the book "Chaumet: a jeweler since 1780" by Diana Skarizbrik, published in 1995 with the introduction of the chief curator of the Louvre Museum of Art, adding a chapter on the modern period. This is a guide to the history of Parisian jewelry. We chose the author due to our deep knowledge of the issue - both at the historical and sociological levels.
What are shoppers, art lovers and collectors looking for at Chaumet trade shows or boutiques around the world?
Everything that we talked about. A woman of the 21st century wants to be involved in the spirit of our brand, to feel like a princess, to become part of the chic and taste of Paris.
How can you describe a Chaumet customer by looking at his jewelry?
Customers who are looking for a meeting with us again and again are in love with Chaumet, its recognizable elegance and style that will never go out of style, staying in it thanks to its grace and poetic beauty.
Our collection "12 Vendome" is unique in that it suits every woman, for any style and occasion. You can wear a necklace and two bracelets that come with it in the headset, or combine them with a long chain for a special occasion. We give you freedom of choice.
What are your future plans?
Hold a biennale. We must really shine there. I would also like to share with everyone the passion that has been inspiring me for over 40 years. And every time - in a new way.
