The heavy iron doors at 43, rue de Monceau in Paris guard Maison Kraemer and behind each of the French windows and quaint nautical style portholes lies one hundred and fifty years of unsurpassed workmanship in an artform that reflects not just penultimate craft but the physical manifestation of the designers' love for their patrons.

It is beautifully sedate townhouse of several stories, once the home of both a French ambassador posted to Scandinavian climes, and the renowned Hachet publishing dynasty, remarkable not for its facade which belies the astonishing inventory of its interior. This optimum understatement extends to the current owners who present themselves simply as the guardians of "a selection of furniture". But then, how could one openly compete with the passion of three French kings whose names equate with a celebration of the decorative arts that has found no equals.

If French period furniture is a symphony orchestra then the Kraemer, family are its most revered conductors. They live and breathe every nuance of their pieces, performing only what they absolutely love, nurturing the gifts of these rarities- if need be enhancing the craftsman's legacy with the most specialised techniques. They then send their wards out into the world - albeit reluctantly - that their pleasure may be afforded those who have both the appreciation and the magnificence to acquire a perfect artform. Kraemer et Cie, was founded by great grandfather Kraemer, a native of Strasbourg who came to Paris after the defeat of France by Germany in 1870. At a loss for a profession to which he could successfully turn his hand M. Kraemer was advised by his uncle, who had already established a flourishing trade in antiques and paintings, to "be in the business of old furniture. It is pleasurable and it is a good job!"