Douce was a dear friend who was very supportive of my creativity and efforts in making jewelry. I’m sorry to say that she died in February of 2006. She was a true gem – kind, gracious, beautiful and in love with life. One of those women who could light up a room. She grew up in Chile and moved to France in her early twenties. She became a force for the arts and a major player in both Chilean and Parisian society.

Here’s a little anecdote that will bring Douce to life. We were walking into a huge outdoor antique fair together one day, and she turned to me, “You know, Leslie, my problem is that I love everything!” She will be sorely missed.

Portrait by Cathy Dalton