The French collector Pierre-Jean Chalençon He has more than four decades dedicated to gathering objects linked to Napoleon Bonaparte. What began as a teenage passion ended up becoming one of the most important private collections in the world about this historical character.
Among the most prominent treasures are Ring that Napoleon used in his coronation (that Chalençon proudly looks in his pinky), the marriage certificate with Josefina, his famous two -spike hat and the first great official portrait of the emperor.
However, after years of search, acquisitions and public exhibition, the collector decided to auction part of his collection in Paris. The reason, he explained, is a combination of legacy, personal wear and wear.
Who is Pierre-Jean Chalençon
Pierre Jean Chalençon was born on June 23, 1970 in Rueil Malmaison, France, and became a figure known both for his role as a collector and for his media appearances. His obsession with Napoleon Bonaparte began in adolescence and led him to form one of the most important private collections in the world dedicated to the French emperor. Among the objects he gathered are manuscripts, letters, furniture, jewels and even hair strands from Napoleon himself.
Throughout his career, founded and directed chalençon empirea firm specialized in the purchase, sale and advice on pieces of the Napoleonic period. But his public recognition was also enhanced thanks to his participation on television, particularly in the “Affaire Concell” program, where he stood out for his eccentric style, striking shirts and opinions without filter.
His figure, however, was not free of controversies. It was criticized for its proximity to characters linked to the extreme right And he starred several media scandals, including the organization of clandestine dinners during the pandemic. These controversies moved him from the small screen and also affected his reputation in the world of art and collecting.
In recent years, Economic difficulties pushed him to auction part of his valuable collection. Far from retiring, Chalençon continues to generate holders: it remains a figure as fascinating as contradictory, moving between the cultural legacy and the media exposure.
His private collection of Napoleon
His collection housed more than 1,000 pieces and covered a wide range of Napoleon’s historical and personal objects. In June 2025, Chalençon auctioned a significant part of his collection in Sotheby’s Paris. Reached a total of 8.7 million euros (approximately 9.6 million dollars), exceeding the initial estimates of 6 million euros in the sale of part of its collection.
Among its most outstanding pieces can be found:
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Napoleon Bicorn: This hat, an emblematic symbol of his reign, was estimated between 500,000 and 800,000 euros and was sold for a figure close to the maximum estimate.
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Gold seal ring and diamonds: Registered by Napoleon to Hans de Bruyère in 1811, this ring, designed by the official jeweler Marc-Etienne Nitot, was valued between 200,000 and 300,000 euros.
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Napoleon portrait: A painting that represents it with the clothing of its coronation reached 863,600 euros, exceeding its initial estimate.
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Imperial throne armchair: This golden wood furniture, associated with the Napoleonic Court, was awarded for 406,400 euros.
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Napoleon personal clothing: A set that included socks, long shirt, underpants and white silk tie, all used by the emperor, sold for 133,350 euros.
Despite the sale, Chalençon expressed their hope that objects continue to inspire future generations and that your collection lasts in collective memory.
Source: Ambito
I am an author and journalist who has worked in the entertainment industry for over a decade. I currently work as a news editor at a major news website, and my focus is on covering the latest trends in entertainment. I also write occasional pieces for other outlets, and have authored two books about the entertainment industry.
