FEATURES ARCHIVE

Pierre Mothes’ working life is full of surprises. Constantly travelling around France, Switzerland and Belgium he finds himself on valuations where he unearths all the wonderful treasures people have in their homes. From Karl Lagerfeld to Daigre and Rybarr, he has rubbed shoulders with some of the most passionate collectors of our time, advising them on the value of their objects. Eva-Maria Dimitriadis talks to Pierre about his latest discovery, his childhood dreams and his admiration of Winston Churchill.

Where did you come across the collection of Charles Sévigny and Yves Vidal?
Well, it all started at a book launch for ‘Les Décorateurs des années 60-70’ by Guy Bloch-Chamfort, which we held at Christie’s in October 2007. I knew a close friend of Charles Sévigny who had bought Dar Zero, his beautiful house in Tangiers.At that time Charles was thinking about having a valuation done and this mutual friend advised him to work with me. Christie’s had also been recommended to him by the well-known decorator Alberto Pinto, but naturally, being a sharp and discerning character, he wanted to meet the Christie’s team who would work on his sale first. So, we were introduced at this event and took it from there...

If you could kidnap a work from the sale and take it home, which would it be?
I like the eclectic spirit of the whole collection so I could steal many things! If I had to choose it would have to be the 1960s granite console table which was housed in Charles and Yves’ entrance hall. It’s very modern. Or perhaps a composition by the Italian artist Lucio del Pezzo (b. 1933) that caught my eye - a large rectangular gilt panel that would look perfect in my flat!

What’s your idea of a perfect day?
A perfect day is one that involves a discovery. My last find happened when I visited a beautiful late 19th century seaside villa and was fortunate enough to happen upon an unknown picture by Etienne Dinet, which we just sold for €480,000.

What advice would you give a client looking to have their property valued?
I’d say do it through a professional firm. Even the most acute collectors come to Christie’s to double check their suppositions. Values change and often appreciate over time so it’s always a good idea to just ask. You can take good digital photos and send them to us or call us to arrange a visit. And I would always advise a complete valuation before dividing property amongst family members.

What was your dream job as a child?
I wanted to become a psychiatrist, following the medical footsteps of my family.

Which historical figure do you most identify with?
I wouldn’t say I identify with him, but I particularly admire Winston Churchill, for his vision of totalitarianism before all other political analysts together with his ability to repeatedly reproduce himself after many political setbacks. He also had a great sense of humour!

What is your favourite museum or gallery?
I love the Musée d’Orsay, particularly the 19th century sculpture wing.

Where would you direct a client for a good lunch near the saleroom?
Le Market on Avenue Matignon for international fusion food or Le Tong Yen on Rue Jean Mermoz, a well known meeting place for both politicians and business men for the past 45 years. It’s a classic Chinese restaurant with a good atmosphere and the décor hasn’t changed since 1962!