Paris, France – It’s back. The Biennale. The way it used to be. The great art fair. Rows upon rows of Old Masters, the Modern and the Contemporary, antiques and antiquities, the Tribal Arts and glorious decor. La Biennale des Antiquaires and Fine Arts Paris art fairs have merged into one:  FAB which was held for the second time to a resounding success last November 22nd until November 26th in the chic ambiance of the Grand Palais Ephemère, the temporary structure housing fairs and exhibitions while the Grand Palais undergoes a restoration. Some 110 galleries from 12 countries came together to celebrate in one of the leading international events devoted to the arts from Antiquity to today. 

One of the eye-catching and charming works on show was a 17th century panel depicting a Bird Concert by Jan Brueghel the Younger (1601-1678). While the work is an allegory to sound,  it also is an ode to nature and biodiversity, all on the agenda as the COP 28 conference on climate change which has just kicked off in Dubai. The work was presented by the Geneva-based Galerie De Jonckheere which specializes in Flemish paintings of the 15th, 16th and 17th centuries. The work depicts a kingdom of birds including owls, looking somewhat skeptical,  colorful cockatiels, curious cranes, delighted ducks and a bird of paradise winging in for a bit of song, all essential members of our planet Earth. And on another nature note, we thoroughly enjoyed the Jaguar in a Landscape by the French 18th/19th century artist Antoine-Louis Barye presented by the Univers du Bronze gallery. Known as one of the finest animal sculptors of the 19th century, the work, a painting, is an exceptional piece for the artist is known for his sculptures. The regal jaguar was a frequent theme in both his sculptures and paintings.  

Another show stealer was the Byzantine-inspired bathroom presented by the Parisian gallery, the Galerie Anne-Sophie Duval, which is specialized in 20th century art and furnishings and was participating in FAB for the very first time. The marble bathroom replete with a giant soaking tub, sink and beautiful fixtures is in working condition with all pipes in place and ready for water falling action. The stunning marble ensemble, fashioned circa 1928, by the decorator Armand-Albert Rateau was originally built for the wealthy French businessman Paul Dubonnet and his flamboyant American wife, Jean Gazley-Donaldson known as Jean Nash. ©Trish Valicenti for The Gourmet Gazette. Next year’s FAB is slated to take place in the Grand Palais from November 21st to the 27th. https://fabparis.com/en/