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Paris. It was like a gallery of painting, modern painting. The works of the artists previously cited covered the walls. She was rather tall. She had an olive skin and her eyes and hair were jet black. Her husband, who lived to be more than 90, had been the senior Senator from Algeria. After his death, Marie continued to maintain their home outside Algiers. Hence, her connection with the Algerian weavers. She had another house at Antibes, on the Riviera and all three, I was told, were filled with modern paintings, much of it the work of artists she sponsored in their early years, long before they became famous. She had perfect taste and a sure instinct for latent talent. She became one of the great connoisseurs and patrons of art.

Marie unlocked Paris for me. She knew all the leading artists and craftsmen. She guided me to the ateliers and studios where I was shown their finest works.