The Picasso of Pastry
09
Feb 2024

The Picasso of Pastry


Pierre Hermé is a French pastry chef and chocolatier lauded for his artistry, innovation, and unique flavour combinations. He's earned numerous accolades, including being called the "Picasso of Pastry". The nickname, bestowed by Vogue magazine, captures his artistic approach to dessert making. Elevating pastries to an art form, emphasising their aesthetics and taste experience. Awarded the World's Best Pastry Chef in 2016. Given by The World's 50 Best Restaurants, demonstrating his global recognition and impact on the pastry world. He is also a Chevalier of the Legion of Honor a prestigious French award, similar to being knighted in the United Kingdom.

More than just a baker: Hermé has built a prestigious brand that spans several key areas in the gourmet world.

He has been credited with revolutionising macarons. This may sound a bit silly but popularised and diversified macarons, a previously niche and not very well known treat. He experimented with unusual flavours like rose, olive oil, and foie gras, pushing the boundaries of traditional pastry expectations. Unlike overly decorated pastries, Hermé emphasizes pure flavours and contrasting textures. He masterfully combines unexpected ingredients to create unique and delightful taste sensations. He pioneered the concept of "luxury patisseries", elevating pastries to a high-end experience like other fine dining that the French are well known for. This involves meticulous craftsmanship, premium ingredients, and a focus on detail.


With multiple stores worldwide, cookbooks, and online classes, Hermé has built a successful empire, sharing his passion and expertise with a eager pastry chefs around the world. Encouraging innovation and creativity, whilst understanding the long standing tradition of French baking.

Pierre Hermé's unique approach to pastry making, combining artistry, innovation, and an emphasis on flavour and texture, has earned him international recognition and made him a significant figure in the culinary world.

Hence the Monnaie de Paris felt as though he would make an excellent addition to their French excellence series. A Numismatic undertaking celebrating the rich culture and grand achievements of France.


Each release within this series is dedicated to showcasing the collaboration between the Monnaie de Paris and various French luxury houses, institutions, or artisans, highlighting the nation's expertise in luxury and craftsmanship. The series began in 2010, to honour and promote France's excellence in various fields, including fashion, jewelry, porcelain, and more, through beautifully crafted numismatic pieces.


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The Guy Savoy 1KG Gold €5000 Coin
R 1,999,000.00
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Pierre Hermé Macaron €200 Gold Coin
R 75,000.00

Delight in every bite: This exquisite macaron, a classic French confection, is masterfully crafted with finely ground almond flour, luscious granulated sugar, and a hint of magical egg whites.


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SafeGold - Safety. Uncompromised.
R 1,500.00

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