Collector Profile: Jean Claude Mouret (Estelläer)
My name is Estelläer. I am a 19 year old French musician, and an avid Tolkien collector living in the United States. Being fond of elves, nature and mythology I find this an enjoyable hobby and aim to be a professional collector someday.
How did you get started in collecting?
Almost a year ago, I started trading, buying and selling Tolkien on eBay, and by consequence found myself acquiring the most intriguing items almost inevitably.
What do you collect?
Limited editions, first printings and signed books. I try not to purchase cheap paperback books or movie memorabilia, but I do have a bit of everything.
How big is your collection?
I have currently between 150 and 200 books. Not that many, because I strive to acquire real long-term possessions, and not cheap memorabilia.
What has been your greatest find so far?
Historically speaking, my The Return of the King 1st US printing from 1956. Aestethically speaking, my Children of Húrin Super Deluxe Signed Edition. I have many First Printings, which make me very proud of my collection.
What does collecting mean to you?
Collecting is a never-ending task, and everytime I succeed in finding a valuable item, my collector’s ego rejoices and swells. I don’t expect to ever feel entirely satisfied with my heirlooms. I always need more, and there will always be more.
What are your future plans regarding your Tolkien collection?
My long-term intentions are to get my hands on a few Tolkien signed items. I have always wanted to collect swords and weapons from Peter Jackson’s The Lord of the Rings motion picture trilogy, but the truth is I would rather spend the money on more books. Perhaps in any near future when I have money to spare, I will fulfill that desire of mine.
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