The Duchesse de Berry was one of the most famous and fascinating aristocratic figures of the 19th century in France. Her innate curiosity led her to be an enthusiastic collector with a passion for music, botany, nature paintings, precious objects, and literature. Her life and patronage inspired Hubert Guerrand-Hermès’ own collection, centuries later, which Sotheby’s is excited to be able to offer to the next generation of collectors on 15 December 2023.
This is a tribute to the Duchesse.
This December, four auctions at Sotheby’s Paris will pay tribute to the discerning eye and art de vivre of Guerrand-Hermès, while also revealing the personality behind his acquisitions. Underpinning the collection is a fascination for Marie-Caroline of Bourbon-Two Sicilies, the Duchesse de Berry – the radical and rebellious daughter-in-law of King Charles X, and great patron of the arts – visible in all the rooms of his hôtel particulier: from the staircase, which is hung with views of the Duchess’s castle (the Château de Rosny), to the library that contains 200 volumes bearing her crest.
This film is written, spoken and portrayed by Greta Bellamacina.
