The Return of Cultural Artifacts Between France and Benin

Stanislas de Quercize has worked in the luxury industry since joining the Richemont group in 1990. Rising through the ranks, he led Montblanc in France and the United States, Cartier in both countries, Van Cleef & Arpels internationally, and later Cartier International and Richemont France. Known for bringing fresh energy to his teams, he also served as a board member of the Comité Colbert from 2005 to 2015 and sits on the executive boards of several major brands, including Barnes, Messika, and Louboutin.

A prominent business leader, father of four, husband, and engaged citizen, he is deeply committed to charitable work. In Emparadiser la vie (Alisio, 2025), he reflects on his career and shares insights from many inspiring leaders. His core belief? That each person’s mission on Earth is to “radiate happiness, throughout the world and for humanity.”

In French.

Pascale Frey is a literary journalist. She has been reading since she first learned how! She began her career at La Tribune de Genève, where she was in charge of the Books section. For many years, she contributed to the magazine Lire, and later to ELLE. While selecting books for the ELLE Readers’ Prize—novels, nonfiction, and crime fiction—she read a large portion of recent literary publications. Today, she continues to share her many favorites on Instagram: @pascale_frey.

This reading circle is dedicated exclusively to contemporary fiction. The latest releases, emerging authors—both French and international—books in the running for literary awards, and major reissues will all serve as the monthly inspiration. The workshop aims to be friendly and interactive, and each participant is encouraged to share their thoughts on the featured book, which must be read before the following meeting. Ten annual sessions to stay fully up to date with the literary scene.

In French.