Ioana Maria Banu (1926–2023) — known widely and affectionately by her childhood nickname ‘Mica’ — was born into a prominent Romanian family. Mica was forced to flee with parts of her family and later settled down in New York with her husband, Ahmet Ertegun.

In 1967 Mica co-founded the interior design business, MAC II, through which she brought her unique design ethos to countless prominent interiors across the globe. Mica changed the view and lifestyle of her generation and beyond by creating spaces that invite conversation and creativity. Her simple and elegant interiors became her signature and the ideal backdrop to her extraordinary art collection.

Mica was a dedicated philanthropist, a champion of the arts, culture and humanities. In 2017 her philanthropic efforts were recognised by Her Late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, who made her an honorary Commander of the British Empire, CBE, for her contributions to philanthropy, education and British-American cultural relations.

Mica Ertegun’s passion for knowledge, refined and pioneering vision are reflected throughout her collection, which serves as her enduring legacy as the ultimate arbiter of style.