Jan Krugier was the most influential and established art dealer of his time.

International art dealer and gallerist Jan Krugier died Saturday, November 15, 2008 at his home in Geneva at the age of 80, surrounded by his family and close friends. He is survived by his wife, Marie-Anne Krugier-Poniatowski, and his two children, Tzila Krugier and Aviel Krugier.

Jan Krugier was the most influential and established art dealer of his time. Ignoring convention, Krugier organized stunning shows with unexpected juxtapositions, making his viewers look with fresh eyes at, for instance, African ceremonial objects and Old Master drawings hung beside the biggest names in Modern and Contemporary art.

Krugier established his first gallery in Geneva, Switzerland in 1962, taking the advice of his friend Alberto Giacometti, who suggested he become an art dealer. He then opened a branch in New York in 1987. Krugier was well known for his traveling exhibitions and presence at international art fairs. He was also the exclusive agent for the Marina Picasso Collection and the Alejandra, Aurelio and Claudio Torres Collection of works by Joaquin Torres-Garcia. In the 1960s he became interested in the works of art made by Antoni Tapies and later on got involved dealing paintings made by Miquel Barcelo.

Krugier believed deeply in the triumph of art over any passing trend or financial fluctuation. He had an incomparable dedication to art and his loss will be profoundly felt.