Eberhard Kornfeld, an outstanding figure in European art history, has passed away at the age of 100, as confirmed by the eponymous auction house in Bern on Friday. Known in the art world as "Ebi", Kornfeld's company can look back on 159 years of auction history, having acquired "Gutekunst & Klipstein" in 1951.

Kornfeld was not only a passionate art lover, but also a scientifically interested connoisseur. His publishing house brought out the catalogue raisonn? of renowned artists such as K?the Kollwitz, Paul Klee, Pablo Picasso, Marc Chagall, Paul Signac, Max Beckmann, and Ernst Ludwig Kirchner, demonstrating his comprehensive understanding and expertise in the field of art.

The doyen of Swiss art trade always had an eye for both wealthy collectors and those who appreciated art on paper, which is traded for smaller amounts than paintings. His business was built on four pillars: old master graphics, German expressionism, French artists of the 19th and 20th centuries, and Swiss art.

Approximately ten years ago, Kornfeld ensured rejuvenation by bringing in gallery owner Bernhard Bischoff as a partner, securing that his legacy in the art trade would continue and his expertise would continue to have a significant influence on the art world. Eberhard Kornfeld will be remembered as one of the most influential figures in art trade history.