The 80's were the years of image, of marketing and public relations. It was in these divergent times that En Attendant les Barbares came into being. This perceptive enterprise started in 1984, with the Moon lamp, a creation of Elizabeth Garouste and Mattia Bonetti. These two accomplices were to refine a repertoire of elegant and remarkable objects, reviving the tradition of the decorative arts.     Their highly desirable pieces brought about a new economy, which persuaded the founders of En Attendant les Barbares, to edit Garouste and Bonetti. Their intention was to create exceptional pieces, a collection of rare, contemporary objects.     Then the gallery moved to Saint Germain. A new generation of designers joined the group. Christian Ghion, Arik Lévy, Matt Sindall, and Eric Jourdan explored traditional techniques. Andrée Putman created a collection of remarkable boxes. Olivier Gagnère, with the gallery since its debut, continues to re-interpret blown glass pieces. Without interruption, the collaboration with Elizabeth Garouste goes from strength to strength.     The context has changed. Design and fine art are now side by side at the Fiac, valorising more than ever the desirability and viability of objects and furniture for the collector. An evolution anticipated since the 80's by En Attendant les Barbares.     Anne Bony Design historian