LINE VAUTRIN - THE PARISIAN POETESS OF METAL

MIROIR SORCIER - LINE VAUTRINThe French Artisan Line Vautrin was that rare soul that lived to create.  Her sense of independence and unique sense of style were both assets and detriments in the 1930's Paris in which she began her career.   The privileged world of Paris society was a fortunate backdrop for the impressionableARTIST & DESIGNER - LINE VAUTRIN young artist, who gave up an internship with the Couturier Elsa Schiaparelli to work on her own.   This was not done at the time by anyone - let alone a woman.   It was the nerve that few in a generation possess - Coco Chanel being one other, just blocks away on the Rue Cambon.   Vautrin would make a name for herself by embellishing items other designers had not thought to decorate.  Shoe heels, Umbrella Handles, and hair combs were among her most notable pieces.   Items that would help a woman to recreate a wardrobe - without buying new clothes.   Accessories to upstage clothing - unheard of in this era of full skirts, big hats, and layers of fabric. Vautrin would create a school of artists to realize her visions, eventually creating jewelry - objet d'art, and concaveADAM & EVE NECKLACE IN BRONZE - LINE VAUTRINE metallic wall mirrors knownLINE VAUTRIN GLASS & BRONZE EARRINGS as Witches Mirrors or Miroir de Sorciere in French.   Her work was unmatched for decades, and collected by the most stylish women and men around the world.

In the 80's Vautrin retired, continuing to create one of a kind items as she desired.   British collector David Gill would connect with the artist soon after, convincing her to travel the world exhibiting her unique collections.  Vautrin died in 1997 at the age of 84, leaving an incredible body of work - and an amazing legacy. 

This month, two New York legends of their own unite to bring a capsule collection of Line Vautrin's work to passionate collectors of fashion jewelry and collectibles. Gallery Maison Gerard and on-line destination- 1st dibs both have a loyal following of taste makers and collectors.  Maison Gerard - a brick and mortar location, and 1st dibs - a website and a concept have coordinated this sale launching 12/12/12.   Bravo to Gerard Widdershoven  and Benoist Drut of Masion Gerard, and Michael Bruno of 1st dibs- for their continued vision of sophisticated design and limited luxury.   Preview this capsule collection - exclusively available at www.1stdibs.com