Just opened at London's iconic V&A Museum is a breathtaking new exhibition, offering a once-in-a-generation look at the splendour of Cartier. This is the UK’s first major exhibition in almost 30 years dedicated to Cartier jewels and watches, exploring how the Maison became an unparalleled force in the jewellery and watch world.
Among the standout pieces are Queen Elizabeth II’s Williamson Diamond brooch, set with a rare 23.6-carat pink diamond; the Scroll Tiara, worn at the Queen’s coronation and later by Rihanna on the cover of W Magazine; Grace Kelly’s engagement ring from the Monaco Princely Palace Collection; a sinuous snake necklace worn by Mexican film star María Félix; and the iconic Crash wristwatch, designed by Cartier London in 1967.
This retrospective exhibition titled simply Cartier is a must-see treasure trove for lovers of design, history, and timeless glamour. The exhibition runs until November 16.
With over 350 objects on display, this exhibition brings together an extraordinary collection of jewels, watches, historic gemstones, and archival drawings, including loans from His Majesty The King, the Royal Collection, major museums, and private collections worldwide.
Designed by British architect and artist Asif Khan MBE, the exhibition is conceived as a “dreamscape where art and science converge,” with Cartier’s creations suspended in light, sound, and time.
Visitors will journey through Cartier’s evolution from the turn of the 20th century—when the founder’s grandsons Louis, Pierre, and Jacques transformed a Parisian family business into a globally recognised house of design and craftsmanship—to its enduring status as a cultural icon adored by royalty, aristocrats, and stars of cinema, music, and fashion.
The exhibition unfolds across three main sections, tracing the rise of Cartier’s distinctive style, its pioneering innovations in design and watchmaking, and its lasting image as “the jeweller of kings and the king of jewellers.” A special focus is given to the history of Cartier London, culminating in a stunning finale of tiaras.
Exhibition curators Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan, said: “Cartier is one of the most famous jewellery houses in the world. This exhibition will explore how Louis, Pierre and Jacques Cartier, together with their father Alfred, adopted a strategy of original design, exceptional craftmanship and international expansion that transformed the Parisian family jeweller into a household name.
"With its world-class jewellery collection, the V&A is the perfect stage to celebrate the pioneering achievements of Cartier and its transformative ability to remain at the centre of culture and creativity for more than a century. We are excited to be able to share with visitors some of Cartier’s most famous creations as well as revealing previously unseen objects and archive material that further enriches our understanding of a jewellery house that continues to influence the way we adorn ourselves today.”
All images courtesy of Victoria & Albert Museum, London.
No comments:
Post a Comment