David David-Weill

David David-Weill was a prominent French-American banker, best known for his role as chairman of Lazard Frères in Paris. Born in 1871, he led a successful career in the business world, while also cultivating a passion for art collection. His extensive collection, comprising over 2000 items, was unfortunately plundered by the Nazis during World War II. Despite this significant loss, David-Weill's commitment to the arts and education endured, as evidenced by his substantial donations to various French and American museums, galleries, and universities.

During the German invasion of France in 1940, David-Weill was forced to go into hiding, initially seeking refuge at the Roquegauthier Castle in Cancon, France. By 1942, he and his wife Flora had relocated to Agen, where they assumed the surname Warnier and hid in the home of a friend. Following the war, the couple returned to their home in Neuilly, where they worked to restore their property and resume their philanthropic efforts. David David-Weill passed away in 1952, leaving behind a legacy as a devoted patron of the arts and a generous benefactor to numerous institutions.