The V&A Museum will host a major exhibition on Cartier, featuring over 350 pieces that illustrate its evolution since the early 20th century. Key highlights include royal pieces, the famous ‘Tutti Frutti’ collection, and exquisite tiaras, showcasing Cartier’s status as a luxury brand. The exhibit runs from April 12 to November 16, aimed at celebrating the jeweller’s enduring legacy.
Cartier is synonymous with luxury, making it a favourite among royals and the elite. The upcoming V&A Museum exhibition, opening in April, will highlight the brand’s exquisite design and craftsmanship, featuring over 350 objects showcasing its history since 1900. Founded in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the jeweller gained prominence through high-profile clients like Princess Mathilde and achieved global status via grandsons Louis, Pierre, and Jacques in the early 20th century.
Curators Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan state, “This exhibition will explore how Louis, Pierre and Jacques Cartier, together with their father Alfred, adopted a strategy of original design, exceptional craftsmanship and international expansion that transformed the Parisian family jeweller into a household name.” The exhibition will celebrate Cartier’s cultural impact and feature both famous and previously unseen pieces.
The exhibition is divided into three sections, documenting Cartier’s rise as a luxury brand, its technical innovation, and its image-making strategies. Visitors can admire pieces illustrating Cartier’s creativity, like a scarab brooch inspired by Indian culture and Art Deco geometrical brooches. A special highlight includes the famous ‘Tutti Frutti’ collection, showcasing colourful gemstones and notable items like the 1928 Mountbatten bandeau.
Royal items on display include the Williamson Diamond brooch, loaned by King Charles, featuring the rare pink diamond commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II. Other highlights include Princess Margaret’s rose clip brooch and Grace Kelly’s exquisite engagement ring from Cartier, on loan from the Monaco Princely Palace Collection.
The exhibition culminates with a display of stunning tiaras, showcasing the highest level of craftsmanship. Unique pieces include the Opal Tiara, once worn by the Dowager Duchess of Devonshire, and the Garland Scroll Tiara, worn by Lady Churchill at the Queen’s coronation and later on Rihanna for a magazine cover.
Exhibit designer Asif Khan aims to create a “dreamscape” that merges art and science, showcasing a thought-provoking experience. Running from 12 April to 16 November, this exhibition promises to be a summer highlight for jewellery enthusiasts.
The V&A Museum’s upcoming Cartier exhibition celebrates the jewellery house’s rich history and craftsmanship, highlighting significant pieces that showcase its influence in luxury design. Through original designs and iconic creations, the exhibition reflects Cartier’s transformation into a global brand. With royal jewellery and a stunning tiara display, the exhibition invites visitors to explore the artistry and cultural significance of Cartier.
Original Source: www.tatler.com