Introducing, for the first time to the public, an extraordinary collection of artwork by Jacques Nestlé.

In 1933, Jacques Nestlé departed Berlin for France, carrying with him only a select few paintings, monotypes, and woodcuts – the exclusive remnants of that particular period.

The allure of Paris proved irresistible to Nestlé, where a vibrant artistic scene thrived. While sustaining himself as a chief decorator and interior designer, he remained steadfast in his commitment to painting, considering it his sole raison d'être.

Two pivotal encounters significantly shaped his career and artistic style. Matisse, having observed Nestlé's paintings and drawings, offered long-term encouragement and inspiration. Concurrently, Kahnweiler took a keen interest in Nestlé, expressing a desire to promote his work.

It wasn't until the 1950s that Nestlé's art embraced the ambiguity between figuration and abstraction, evolving towards a distinctive form of lyrical abstraction. He developed his unique artistic vocabulary, characterized by structured spaces, abstracted forms, the play of light on white backgrounds, and collage. Mastering his craft, Nestlé adeptly utilized the fluidity of gouache and ink to express his compositions on large-format papers.

"The artist cannot claim spiritual ownership of his work," explained Jacques Nestlé, adding, "Genius is the moment when the work manifests itself in a moment of creation. And there it is of all times, present and future."

Perhaps this is Nestlé's secret – a deliberate avoidance of excessive exhibitions during his lifetime, leaving behind a singular body of work. Danielle Moos, an art enthusiast and avid admirer of early 20th-century German and French painting, presents a portion of this magnificent heritage for the first time to the public.