The story of this collection begins with a moment of delight, the kind that quietly shapes a life. The collector still remembers walking into the former Hermès boutique at the Hyatt on Collins Street and choosing what is now Lot 31: Pierres d’Orient et d’Occident by Zoé Pauwels. “At the time I couldn’t decide between it and Cliquetis (now Lot 20) so I knew I would be back for more,” she recalls.
Designed in 1988, Pierres d’Orient et d’Occident is a jewel-like study of cross-cultural ornamentation. Pauwels layers gemstone motifs, architectural borders and mosaic geometry into a composition that feels both archaeological and couture. It was the perfect introduction for a collector who bought instinctively, guided by emotion rather than trend. “I never visited Hermès with a specific colour in mind, I had to feel an emotional connection to the scarf.”
This sense of intuitive discovery shaped a collection that evolved gently over time. She gravitated toward the work of Annie Faivre, Dimitri Rybaltchenko and Aline Honoré. Their creativity spans narrative whimsy, architectural precision and bold graphic modernity. “Their extraordinary detail and fabulous colours always captivated me,” she reflects.
One of the collection’s most joyful highlights is Lot 22: Cirque Molier by Philippe Dumas. Inspired by the lavish nineteenth century private circus established by Ernest Molier, the design bursts with movement. Acrobats twist mid-air, horses prance, performers pose in elaborate costume and the entire composition is filled with extraordinary detail. “It always made me smile. The detail is extraordinary.”
At the opposite end of the aesthetic spectrum sits one of her great architectural favourites, Lot 20A: Faubourg by Night by Dimitri Rybaltchenko. In this hypnotic composition the iconic Hermès flagship at 24 Rue du Faubourg Saint-Honoré radiates through a kaleidoscope of golden geometric facets. It feels cinematic, Paris glowing under moonlight and refracted into a luminous mandala. Highly coveted among collectors, it represents the modern, atmospheric side of her taste.
What elevates this collection further is its exceptional condition. These scarves were cherished yet carefully preserved. The colours remain vibrant, the hand-rolled hems are crisp and are accompanied by their original boxes and tissue. The collector also maintained a meticulously organised spreadsheet recording artists, themes, dates and personal notes. This level of documentation and presentation is rare and speaks to an owner who honoured both the artistry and the heritage of Hermès.
These pieces were not stored away untouched. They were lived with and loved. “Wearing a silk scarf by Hermès is a pleasure. I wore them nearly every day when I worked and I always packed one when travelling. They finish an outfit no matter how casual or special the occasion.”
Now, as life naturally shifts, she feels ready to let them go. “It is time to downsize my collection due to a change of lifestyle.” Her wish for the next custodians is simple and heartfelt. “Enjoy wearing them as much as I have.”
For bidders, this sale represents a rare opportunity. These are beautifully preserved examples from Hermès’ most celebrated designers, each chosen with instinct, emotion and joy. Every lot carries its own story and now awaits its next chapter.
By Julia Gueller, Luxury Specialist
Top Image: Hermès, Silk Carré “Pierres D’Orient Ed D’occident”. $300-500
December 2025