Small is Beautiful

Small things – epigrams, miniatures, gems – are intolerant of imperfection and demand judicious attention, a focus bordering on hypnosis, some blend of intimacy and obsession. The great antiquarian and connoisseur Guy Ladrière is exhibiting his astounding personal collection of carved stonesin Paris, under the patronage of Van Cleef & Arpels. This assortment of masterpieces of all eras includes cameos, intaglios, rings, brooches, and pins and represents both a diverse array of worlds (Etruria, ancient Rome, the Middle Ages and the Renaissance…) and a form of enchantment capable of transforming a merchant into his own best customer.