Mr. Pallot was instrumental in the designation of several items as national treasures, reinforcing the trust placed in him by both experts and buyers. Among his duped clients was Prince Abdullah bin Khalifa Al-Thani of Qatar, who was led to believe he had acquired authentic pieces once owned by historical figures like Marie Antoinette and Madame du Barry, the mistress of Louis XV.

In the past, Pallot had solidified his authority in the field with his book "The Art of the Chair in 18th Century France," complete with a preface by the revered designer and antique lover, Karl Lagerfeld. However, he now finds himself at the center of a scandal that has shaken the very foundations of the antique community, revealing how even the most esteemed authorities can fall prey to deception.