The present sale clearly reflects the extent and breadth of Bernard De Leye’s curiosity, always applied to the highest level, from the Middle Ages to the 19 th century, whether it be goldsmiths or their patrons. Not only does he know how to find and choose pieces, but he also takes care of placing them within their historical and scientific context.

Gold and silverware, especially 18th century French objects of vertu, have given rise to major collections – those of Calouste Gulbenkian, Arturo Lopez or Elisabeth Parke Firestone, to name a few examples. In current times, important sales of gold and silverware such as the present, which reflect a true history of European goldsmithing work are rare, but what remains comforting is that Bernard De Leye proves to us that not all major pieces are in museums yet and that, if we agree to his offering, it would still be possible to build up important collections. There couldn’t be a better place to start.