This is an authoritative book published in collaboration with Christie's, featuring photographs of the BergeSaint Laurent collection in situ, complete with estimated value information and final auction prices. In February 2009, 733 pieces from Pierre Berge and Yves Saint Laurent's art collection - one of the largest private collections in the world- was auctioned off in a record-breaking sale of the century. Modern paintings, baroque bronzes, antique silverware and statues, cameos, and minerals comprise this diverse collection that furnished Berges and Saint Laurent's two luxurious residences in the 6th arrondissement in Paris, and included major works by Picasso, Brancusi, Matisse, and Mondrian, in addition to furniture by the Art Deco masters Eileen Gray and Jean Dunand. Many works sold for prices far above the highest estimates, making this the most important European auction to date. The five-volume catalog published by Christie's for the event sold out before the end of the auction, leaving collectors and art connoisseurs the world over empty-handed. Flammarion presents a new volume featuring photographs of this fabulous collection in situ in Berges and Saint Laurent's two Parisian residences and highlights one hundred of the most important pieces with detailed commentaries by Christie's experts. An introduction by Christie's vice president Francois de Ricqles revisits the intense three-day auction at the Grand Palais that set a new standard in the history of the art market. An illustrated appendix includes images of the works sold, accompanied by their estimated values and final auction prices. This visually stunning and informative volume is a must-have for art lovers and serious collectors. Publication coincides with the auction of the BergeSaint Laurent collection at Chateau Gabriel in October 2009.

Exquisite dresses from three masters of the grand tradition of French fashion whose contributions have set the standard for haute couture. Cristobal Balenciaga, Philippe Venet, and Hubert de Givenchy are unparalleled masters, and their individual contributions have set the standard for haute couture. Not only did the great Spanish designer Cristobal Balenciaga create a style, but he also invented a technique. He was an architect of haute couture and has had a prevailing influence upon the international world of fashion. His trademarks were his astounding creativity, exceptional command of tailoring, and timeless elegance. Philippe Venet has experience and respect for the traditions of haute couture, but distinguishes himself with his use of colors, and his innovative and imaginative tailoring. The 1960s were marked by his "kite" coats whereas his designs of the 1980s and 1990s with their fresh, lively colors maintain a youthful appeal. Hubert de Givenchy, the aristocrat of haute couture, still inspires the fashion world with his sense of perfection. The Givenchy style was an alliance between pure, classic lines and high quality fabrics, whether lavish or light, black or colorful. His designs--often exhibiting floral and foliate themes--reveal his deep-rooted love for nature. Givenchy initiated and was actively involved in the creation of this handsome work, which recalls the precious "compacts" of centuries past--miniature gift cases of gold, enamel, or mother-of-pearl that were offered as a sign of friendship. These extraordinary evening gowns were selected by Hubert de Givenchy, President of the Cristobal Balenciaga Foundation, along with Philippe Venet, and the Princess of Chateau Beauvau Craon. Highlights include Queen Fabiola of Belgium's wedding dress created by Balenciaga and the unforgettable black dress created by Givenchy for Audrey Hepburn in Breakfast at Tiffany's.