Guerlain, Paris
5 MAY – 8 JUNE 2018
In 1777, The Count of Artois accepted Queen Marie-Antoinette’s challenge to build a small chateau- the Chateau de Bagatelle- in the Bois de Boulogne,Paris, within three months. The Count won the bet and the residence was completed in only sixty-three days. Described as a ‘folly’, the Chateau was
renowned for its romantic scenery and exquisite rose garden within the formal gardens- the Parc de Bagatelle- that surrounded it.
The gardens later expanded and trees planted since the end of the 18 th century include oak, pine, sequoia and cedar. Numerous statues, a Chinese pagoda, small bridges and grottoes adorn the landscape. Roses, irises, perennials, clematis, peonies are in abundance throughout the area that is now one of Paris’ four botanical gardens.
In 1983, the Parc de Bagatelle, inspired Jean-Paul Guerlain’s scent ‘La Jardin Bagatelle’ when he envisioned ‘an irresistible melody for a fulfilled and spontaneous woman in love’. Similarly, artist Rashid Al Khalifa’s recent series ‘Les Roses de Bagatelle’, inspired by the flowers of the landscape, call to mind the scent of the garden’s flora combined with a sense of nostalgia for the purity of young love.
About Guerlain and its art patronage
Since 1828, Guerlain explores, innovates and perfects fragrances, skincare products and makeup. Guerlain is a luxury house of daring creators, producing mythical creations with timeless savoir-faire. During the II French Empire, Guerlain was a purveyor to the Imperial Court under Emperor Napoléon III and Empress Eugénie.
For the last twelve years Guerlain begun a partnership with the Foire internationale d’art contemporain (Fiac) as well as the Maison Européenne de la Photographie (MEP). It sponsors the Design Award of Daniel and Florence Guerlain.
Particular exhibitions and art collaborations are meant to highlight Guerlain’s patronage for beauty and artistic creation.
