catalogue collection yves saint laurent et pierre bergé | Saint Laurent collection

The "Catalogue Collection Yves Saint Laurent et Pierre Bergé" represents far more than just a listing of items for sale. It is a tangible record of an extraordinary partnership, a testament to impeccable taste, and a window into the artful world curated by two titans of the 20th century: Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé. The auction, organized by Christie's and Pierre Bergé & Associés, was a watershed moment in the art world, a three-day event in February 2009 that captured global attention. The catalogue itself, a meticulously crafted five-volume set, became an object of desire in its own right, a piece of art history encapsulating a collection built with passion, knowledge, and an unwavering commitment to beauty.

The decision to auction the collection, amassed over decades by Saint Laurent and Bergé, was a deeply personal one, reflecting Bergé's desire to responsibly manage Saint Laurent's legacy following the designer's death in 2008. He understood that the collection, housed primarily in their Parisian apartment on the Rue de Babylone, was too significant to remain hidden from the public eye. Its dispersal, while undoubtedly bittersweet, allowed for a wider appreciation of the extraordinary objects they had assembled and the profound influence they had exerted on the world of art and fashion.

The Catalogue: A Monument to Taste and History

The physical catalogue, a weighty and impressive compilation, speaks volumes about the care and consideration given to the collection. Consisting of five volumes, it detailed 686 lots, each meticulously described and photographed. The sheer size of the publication – with its comprehensive entries, historical context, and high-quality reproductions – elevated it beyond a mere auction listing. It transformed into a reference book, a source of inspiration, and a lasting tribute to the discerning eye of Saint Laurent and Bergé.

The catalogue was printed in an edition of 8,000 copies, each priced at €200, a testament to its perceived value and desirability. This price point, while substantial, did little to deter collectors, scholars, and art enthusiasts eager to possess a piece of this extraordinary story. The catalogue became a highly sought-after item, a collector's item in its own right, further solidifying the enduring appeal of the Saint Laurent-Bergé aesthetic.

The significance of the catalogue lies not only in its detailed descriptions of the individual lots but also in its presentation of the collection as a cohesive whole. It revealed the interwoven narratives of art, design, and personal history that characterized the lives of Saint Laurent and Bergé. By carefully documenting the provenance, historical context, and artistic significance of each item, the catalogue provided a comprehensive understanding of the collection's unique value.

The Exhibition: A Glimpse into a World of Refinement

Prior to the auction, a public exhibition of the lots was held, drawing an astounding 30,000 visitors in just two and a half days. This remarkable turnout underscored the immense public interest in the collection and the enduring fascination with the lives of Saint Laurent and Bergé. People queued for hours, sometimes enduring waits of up to four hours, for the opportunity to witness firsthand the treasures that had adorned their Parisian home.

The exhibition was meticulously curated, recreating the atmosphere of the Rue de Babylone apartment and allowing visitors to experience the collection as it had been lived with and appreciated by Saint Laurent and Bergé. The arrangement of paintings, sculptures, furniture, and objets d'art reflected their personal tastes and the harmonious blend of styles and periods that defined their aesthetic.

The exhibition served as a powerful reminder of the transformative power of art and design. It showcased the ability of objects to evoke emotions, inspire creativity, and connect us to the past. For many, it was a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness a collection of such unparalleled quality and historical significance. The sheer volume of visitors, despite the lengthy queues, demonstrated the profound impact that Saint Laurent and Bergé had on popular culture and the enduring appeal of their unique vision.

The Auction: A Historic Event

The auction itself was a spectacle, a whirlwind of bidding wars and record-breaking prices. Collectors from around the world descended upon Paris, eager to acquire a piece of the Saint Laurent-Bergé legacy. The atmosphere was electric, charged with anticipation and a sense of historical importance.catalogue collection yves saint laurent et pierre bergé

The sale included a diverse range of items, reflecting the breadth and depth of the collection. Highlights included masterpieces by Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, Constantin Brancusi, and Piet Mondrian, as well as exquisite furniture, decorative arts, and tribal artifacts. The prices achieved for many of the lots far exceeded pre-sale estimates, demonstrating the extraordinary demand for these exceptional objects.

The auction was not without its controversies. Concerns were raised about the potential impact of the sale on the art market, as well as the ethical implications of dispersing a collection of such historical and cultural significance. However, Bergé defended his decision, arguing that the auction would allow for a wider appreciation of the collection and ensure its long-term preservation.

Ultimately, the auction was a resounding success, generating a staggering sum of money and solidifying the legacy of Yves Saint Laurent and Pierre Bergé as two of the most influential figures of the 20th century. The proceeds from the sale were used to fund the Fondation Pierre Bergé – Yves Saint Laurent, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and promoting Saint Laurent's work and supporting the arts.