Marie-Josèphe Savinel was Bernard Arnault’s mother. Bernard Arnault is among the world’s wealthiest individuals. He serves as the chairman of LVMH, a large corporation that owns several renowned luxury brands such as Dior and Louis Vuitton. Nevertheless, his mother was very instrumental in making Bernard the person he is now before he became a business tycoon.
Quick Facts About Marie-Josèphe Savinel
Full Name | Marie-Josèphe Geneviève Savinel |
Birthdate | August 17, 1920 |
Occupation | Pianist; Fashion Enthusiast |
Husband/Wife | Jean Léon Arnault |
Education | Trained pianist (formal music education) |
Age (at death)
Died |
85 years
November 1, 2005 |
Parents | Étienne Célestin Savinel, Elisa Jeanne Savinel |
Grandchildren | Frédéric Arnault, Antoine Arnault, Alexandre Arnault, Delphine Arnault, Jean Arnault |
Children | Bernard Arnault, Dominique Watine Arnault (died) |
Net Worth | <$1 million |
Early Life and Family Background
Marie-Josèphe was born on August 17, 1920. She was born in a town called Marsac-en-Livradois, which is in France. Her parents were Étienne Célestin Savinel and Elisa Jeanne Savinel. Her parents had a business background. Her father began a company doing civil engineering, which was Ferret-Savinel.
Marie-Josèphe later wed Jean Léon Arnault. He was an engineer and worked at her father’s company. They had children together, and one of them is Bernard Arnault.
A Life Full of Passion and Music
Marie-Josèphe was passionate about music. She was a professional pianist. The piano held a large place in her life. She also loved fashion, particularly the fashion of Christian Dior. This haute couture passion was very significant. It shaped the way she brought up her children, particularly Bernard.
She brought up Bernard with strict discipline. The family believed in being Catholic and disciplined. Bernard learned to play the piano since he was a child. His mother wished for him to have a proper education and an appreciation for art. She ensured Bernard was raised in a cultured and disciplined upbringing.
Her Influence on Bernard Arnault
Marie-Josèphe’s passion for fashion and music influenced Bernard. Her passion for Christian Dior instilled something in Bernard’s mind. Bernard would later purchase the fashion house of Dior in later life. This marked the beginning of creating his empire in luxury fashion houses.
Her combination of strict discipline and respect for culture assisted Bernard in growing up to be an intelligent and committed businessman. The household she provided was one that balanced art and business. This influenced Bernard’s life.
Family and Children
Marie-Josèphe and Jean Léon Arnault had two identified children. Bernard Arnault is their most illustrious son. He was born on March 5, 1949, in Roubaix, France. Bernard has four children of his own, but that is another tale.
Marie-Josèphe’s daughter, Dominique Watine Arnault, was also a member of the family. Unfortunately, Dominique died on March 1, 2006.
Later Years and Death
Marie-Josèphe had a long lifespan. She died on November 1, 2005. She succumbed to death in Neuilly-sur-Seine, a suburb of Paris, France. She was aged 85.
To this day, her legacy continues even after her death through Bernard and the work he does in the high-end fashion industry.
READ ALSO: Bernard Arnault Net worth, Age, Wife, Family, Facts & More
What Makes Marie-Josèphe Special?
Marie-Josèphe Savinel was not only Bernard Arnault’s mother. She was a refined lady who was fond of music and fashion. Her love for Christian Dior was extraordinary. It was not only a passion but something that motivated her son’s career.
Her commitment to bringing up her children with discipline and culture made a significant impact. Bernard Arnault’s success can be attributed to the family and values she provided.