Is Carl Burgundy planning to spend Valentine's Day at Place Vendome? No, of course not. The square is beautiful and it embodies all that’s chic about Paris. However, if Carl was to be spotted browsing the windows, stopping to meditate or wandering from door to door, there could only be one reason for it – LOVE. His dear Marie is the one that he carries in his heart and he’d love to offer her a magnificent piece such as those made by the exclusive jewellery designers in the Place Vendôme.
All the world’s jewellers?
All of them? Probably not. But, certainly the most prestigious. You’ll find 24 of the biggest jewellery houses on a square that has attracted great couturiers, shoemakers, perfumers, jewellers and luxury watchmakers from as early as the mid-19th century. The square was designed by Jules Hardouin-Mansart, Louis XIV’s architect, to whom we also owe the Château de Saint-Germain-en-Laye, Château de Clagny, and the Grand Trianon of Versailles stables in the Victories. Frédéric Boucheron was the first jeweller to arrive in the Place Vendôme in 1893 and he was quickly followed by Cartier, Chaumet, and Van Cleef and Arpels.
How beautiful she will be, Marie!
In addition to these legendary houses, talented designers like Fred, Philippe Tournaire, Buccellati, Jaeger Le Coultre and Jaubalet showcase their finest jewels at Place Vendôme. Will Carl be tempted by the white gold tulle at Buccellati, the coloured stones and pearls at Fred, or the multi-coloured mosaics by Lyon-based goldsmith Philippe Tournaire? Well, unless the vegetation-inspired masterpieces that are the trademark of mysterious virtuoso J.A.R (Joseph Arthur Rosenthal) captivate him and make him throw caution to the wind. The enigmatic American who refuses all interviews and who never has photographs published might just manage to unleash his passions. Though if he hopes to see one of these spectacular jewels, Carl will need to find a way into J.A.R’s secret lair, wait for an auction, or visit the Musée des Arts Déco. Quite an undertaking!
~oOo~
Hotel Burgundy Paris, a 5 star hotel in Paris, at the heart of the 1st district