Most of us know M.S. Rau as a respected, international purveyor of antiques, art and jewelry, but did you know that they also serve as an art gallery? I was able to chat with third generation owner, Bill Rau, about the current art exhibition, “Dreaming in Color: Chagall and His Circle,” and get his top gift recommendations for the holiday season. Spoiler alert, you can ask Santa for a Chagall.
In a time when so many businesses are moving to larger cities, what keeps you in New Orleans?
My grandfather founded M.S. Rau in 1912, right here in New Orleans. In an era when independent businesses are often replaced or absorbed, it is our privilege to remain a vibrant fixture in our historic city. As the third generation of family owners, I’m able to carry forward a tradition deeply rooted in New Orleans—a tradition of excellence that collectors and art lovers from around the world seek out.Â
M.S. Rau boasts an impressive catalog of antiques, do any pieces have special ties to New Orleans?
Yes. Here are a few:
• Platinum and 2 ct. diamond Fleur-de-lis Brooch. A quintessential symbol of New Orleans often seen adorning balconies, gates, and other architectural elements throughout the city.
• Tom Brady Signed Football. This football is a significant piece of sports memorabilia, commemorating the Super Bowl that took place at the iconic Superdome.
• Bronze Sculpture: The Last Days of Napoleon by Vicenzo Vela. Napoleon’s historical connection to Louisiana, particularly the Louisiana Purchase, makes any item associated with him a fascinating piece of history for local collectors.
• Bronze Sculpture: Dancer Fastening the String of Her Tights by Edgar Degas. Edgar Degas, though primarily associated with Paris, spent a significant portion of his life in New Orleans. A bronze sculpture by this renowned artist offers a unique connection to the city’s artistic heritage.
Can you offer a few holiday gift recommendations?
For an equestrian (and a great deal), we have an Italian 18K Yellow and White Gold Horse Brooch. For a bolder purchase, I’m thinking of the scene in Notting Hill when Julia Robert’s character buys her love interest, Hugh Grant, an original Chagall as a grand gesture of her love. Why not do the same and purchase “Couple in the Moonlight” by Marc Chagall?Â
Finally, please tell us more about the curation of the current exhibition: “Dreaming in Color: Chagall and His Circle?”
Like so many in the art world, we have long been captivated by Marc Chagall’s enchanting, dreamlike compositions. Recently, we were honored with the opportunity to acquire a substantial collection of his previously unseen works directly from his family. With this incredible foundation, we expand the exhibition to include several of Chagall’s contemporaries, as his influence resonated deeply with an entire generation of colorists and artists who redefined art history. The result is a vibrant, dynamic celebration of color and innovation, and we are thrilled to unveil it to the public free of charge.
Meet Penn, Shop Talk Blogger
Penn Larocci is a born and raised New Orleanian. After graduating from Tulane University she lived in NYC for nine years working in sales and marketing at an investment bank. When she missed New Orleans more than she could stand, she moved back home, met her husband and started a family. She’s now raising two rambunctious little boys and spending her free time on environmental sustainability projects.
