“It’s always a pleasure for me to be in Monaco. Most Monegasques always tell me that they immediately recognize Princess Grace when they see my statue of her at the hospital. That always makes me happy when they tell me that.” The Dutch sculptor Daphné du Barry talks with a smile on her face. She is one of the main attractions of the Art and Luxury Fair, which is held until Saturday at the Hotel Metropole in Monte Carlo. Eleven stands have been set up over two rooms at this fair, combining extraordinary craftsmanship with art, luxury and lifestyle. It is the first time that this fair is held in Monaco under the high patronage of HSH Prince Albert.
The three-day event was opened on Thursday with a marvellous performance by the opera singer Elim van Delft and a word of thanks by HRH Princess Margarita de Bourbon de Parme, who attracts a lot of attention at the fair with her self-designed jewels. There are a few Dutch artists, such as the sculptors Daphné du Barry, Sonja Vishnudart and Sanne Bernhart but there is also a stand of the classic jewellery makers Spadafora and the world-famous Delft Blue China from Royal Blue Collection, among others. There will also be a stand of Atelier Iddi, which can expertly restore paintings.
“It is a beautiful collection of masterworks and high quality craftmanship on a few square meters,” explains the Dutch organiser Annette Wijdom during a tour. “It is the first time that we organise such a fair in Monaco. In the Netherlands we have an annual event like this and we hope to have a similar fair in Monaco every year from now on. This is a wonderful start.” Hotel Metropole is a beautiful backdrop for this start, where all visitors can get their money’s worth.
Monegasques and residents of Monaco will especially recognise Lady Fortuna, from the statue they pass at the entrance of the Casino. Two original copies of this statue can be seen at the Daphné du Barry stand, as well as a small copy of the statue of Princess Grace, which stands in front of the hospital bearing her name. The sculptures of the tango dancers by Sonja Vishnudart (so passionately intertwined) and L’Eve by Sanne Bernhart (a female body consisting of leaves) certainly deserve extra attention. This fair offers a great opportunity to get inspiration for gifts for the coming festive months while enjoying a glass of champagne. The entrance is free.
Featured image: Tangodancers by Sonja Vishnudart
