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An artisan in Versailles
April 8, 2012 by Pierre Finkelstein in Featured / 8 Comments.
Contact Pierre Finkelstein by email or visit Pierre's web site, http://www.pfinkelstein.com
I want to share an inspiring story about the current head of the gilding restoration department at the Chateau de Versailles, France. This man has become a master with humble beginnings. I know this can be a common story, but this is special.
In 1990, Laurent Hissier was hired as a night watchman at the Palace at Versailles. For the next ten years, he would hold this position. He
spent his evenings strolling the halls of Versailles with a flashlight, peering at decorative works while scanning for security issues. As the time passed, he became more and more drawn to the painted decoration in the halls. He began practicing techniques in his spare time, trying to figure out this fascinating art form.One day, he went to the gilding and restorations shop to ask advice on one of the panels he was working on. Daniel Sievert, the head of the department, openly shared his techniques. Laurent would return many times to seek advice. Upon one visit, Mr. Sievert mentioned how he was in need of an extra pair of hands at the shop. This was not an easy task, but eventually, Laurent was transferred from security duty to becoming part of the gilding team. In 2003, he joined the workshop. For the next 5 years, Laurent would study under his master, Daniel Sievert. In 2004, he met Pierre Lefumat who passed down the art of marbling for use in the prestigious rooms of the palace. When Mr. Sievert retired, Laurent was the logical choice to run the shop and he is now the department head of gilding restoration in Versailles.
I met Laurent first by email, back when he was a night watchman. He started writing me with technical questions about faux marble and woodgraining. I replied and helped him figure things out. Then, for a time, I did not hear from him. While I was visiting France this winter, I met the author of this great, new gilding book. It turned out that the author of that book was Lauren! It took me a while to put the story together, but it was inspiring. Laurent thanked me for giving him advice all those years ago. He was happy to meet me, and me him. I felt proud to be a part of his story.
On another trip, Laurent invited to the Chateau de Versailles. We were both excited to finally meet and share “artisan” commonalities. He showed me the gilder’s shop and the projects he was working on. This shop is located in the very prestigious, Royal Gables. But, the most fascinating for me was the tools he used and how techniques were primarily untouched for centuries. I’m a sucker for brushes, as you know.Then, as the Chateau museum closed to the public, Laurent gave me a superb treat by giving me a private tour. I got to look closely, ask him questions, and take a few photos. As an unforeseen bonus, he managed to secure a few keys to rooms that are not open to the public (It’s nice to have friends in the surveillance department!) We walked the halls for hours.
What a story of a guy who created this career by keeping his eyes open to the possibilities. Laurent went from a night watchman to the head of gilding restoration at the Chateau de Versailles in a matter of a decade.
Laurent’s book is called “The art and techniques of gilding in Versailles”. This book is invaluable for gilders. His master, Daniel Sievert keeps no secrets when it comes to the traditional techniques used in Versailles. Truly, a one-of-a-kind depiction of the secret world of centuries. I highly recommend it.
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8 Comments
Lynne Rutter
The book is stunning and a must have for anyone serious about gilding. Such a treat you got to see Versailles on a private tour! Laurent is a generous and lovely man and true talent.
09 Apr 2012 03:04 pm
NameTheresa Cheek
This is a truly inspiring story. You are a sucker for brushes…I am a sucker for fairy tales coming true!
09 Apr 2012 05:04 pm
sylvie michel bilger
Wow, amazing story Pierre !
I worked myself at the Chateau for 2 years…very privilege,unique experience..
The reason I was hired (1984 to 1986) by the family Dupuis in charge of the restoration at the time, was to do ” faux -granit ” at the Chateau of Compiegne…Coming out of the Van Der Kelen Institute , I had a beautiful granit sample. Sucker for brush? Well…I had the fameux ” chiqueteur” brush and that did it for me .
Now I never took the time to go back there since I ‘m in the States ?! and you inspired me to do so….specially take my chidren for a tour.
A bientot.
09 Apr 2012 11:04 pm
Brian
My wife and I visited Versailles 10/ 15 years ago, prior to my interest and developed passion for faux painting. I was in awe at the Impression it conveyed . Truly and honestly I can say .on entering the Kings room my Breath was litteraly taken away with the gold, and it was noticed by the guide and my wife.. we had a bond for the rest of the tour. I still walk every step of that visit.in awe. memory allowing.
Thanks Pierre and Artisphere for bringing back some of those memories.
I WILL return to Versailles.
Brian
10 Apr 2012 11:04 am
sylvie bilger
Great to finally meet you Pierre!
What a stunning presentation by Miriam Ellner…a true artist !?
Really enjoy too to discover the Society general
10 Apr 2012 11:04 pm
Name pierre Finkelstein
thanks sylvie, it was great to meet you as well.
11 Apr 2012 08:04 am
steve shriver
Very nice to fill in some of the details of this friendly and open craftsman! I sure hope i’ll get a chance to visit him there too. sounds like we share a lot of interests, even beyond art. thanks Pierre- hope to see you at IDAL this summer.
20 May 2012 01:05 am
Tamra Alexander Cook
What a great story. This book is definitely on my must have list. Versailles is such a feast for the eyes but to go inside the inner sanctum of restoration?! What a double treat!
08 Jun 2012 11:06 am
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