3. Meller dits Mellerio
Mellerio Borgnis (1858–ca.1914)
Drawing of a brooch
Graphite on paper
ca. 1865
Van Cleef & Arpels Jewelry Culture Fund
Transcript
The Mellerio family is a remarkable dynasty of French jewellers with deep roots in Italy. Originating from a picturesque mountain village in northern Italy, the Mellerios set off for France in 1515, finding their new home in the bustling streets of Paris, rue des Lombards. Their journey took a royal turn in 1613 when Queen Marie de Medicis recognized their talents, bestowing upon them special privileges for thwarting a conspiracy against her young son, Louis XIII. This royal decree was renewed by every French monarch up to Louis XVI.
Fast forward to 1815—François Mellerio established his shop on the renowned rue de la Paix, strategically positioned in a location that was yet untouched by other jewelers. As the tide turned in 1830 and the princes of Orléans claimed the French throne, Mellerio was appointed official jeweler to “Her Royal Highness, the Queen of the French.” The late 19th century saw Mellerio’s creations grace many other European Courts.
As the dawn of the 20th century approached, Mellerio’s ties to the fashion world deepened: in the 1950s they collaborated with icons like Christian Dior, Pierre Balmain, and Balenciaga.