The word salon has a long history. A social gathering in the room or under the roof of an inspiring host—or hostess—the salon began in 16th-century Italy, but was brought to a pitch of perfection in 17th- and 18th-century France. Its hallmarks? Sophisticated wit, sparkling intellect, style to die for. Salon Art + Design, which returns to the Park Avenue Armory for its eighth edition, is an international fair that encourages its exhibiting galleries (56 this year, from 14 countries) to present vintage, modern, and contemporary art and design in an immersive and inspiring setting—witty, sparkling, stylish. —L.J.