The first example of a hetero-tetranuclear [(VO)Gd](2) complex: synthesis, crystal structure and magnetic properties of [VOLGd(hfa)(2)CH(3)OH](2).2CH(3)OH.2(CH(3))(2)CO.

A cyclic tetranuclear [VIVO–GdIII]2 complex with VO and Gd ions alternately arrayed, behaves, from the magnetic point of view, as two independent dinuclear entities each having a S = 4 ground state, as a consequence of an active and ferromagnetic VO–Gd interaction through the double phenoxo bridge and a magnetically inactive VO–Gd interaction through the amide bridge.