The V&A museum in London hosts a Cartier exhibition, featuring iconic jewellery pieces including a 23-carat pink diamond brooch gifted to Queen Elizabeth II. The exhibition runs until October and includes 350 pieces, highlighting Cartier’s influence on luxury jewellery over 180 years. It showcases the brand’s ties to celebrities and royals, underlining its enduring legacy and innovative designs.
A stunning Cartier exhibition has opened at the V&A museum in London, showcasing iconic jewellery creations loved by celebrities from Queen Elizabeth II to Rihanna. For the first time in 30 years, the museum presents a retrospective display featuring rarely seen pieces from Cartier’s history, reflecting its influence on luxury jewellery since its founding in 1847. The exhibition is sold out for April and May, but runs until October, displaying 350 pieces, including exquisite brooches, tiaras, and necklaces adorned with precious gems.
Curated by Helen Molesworth, the exhibition highlights Cartier’s innovative designs that remain timeless. “We all think of Cartier as being this wonderful design epic… but it’s also because it is so good at creating something that is ahead of the times, but doesn’t go out of fashion,” said Molesworth. Notable pieces include the 23-carat Williamson pink diamond rose brooch given to Queen Elizabeth II in 1953, and a diamond tiara worn by Clementine Churchill, lent to Rihanna for a photoshoot.
Among the showcased masterpieces, the exhibition features Grace Kelly’s engagement ring and a diamond rose brooch owned by Princess Margaret. Molesworth stated, “We wanted to showcase… the legacy of Cartier over a hundred years,” reflecting the changing tastes from the lavish Roaring Twenties to the more reserved designs of the 1960s.
Cartier’s evolution is traced through the influences from various cultures as their founders travelled and drew inspiration from around the world. The brand has consistently been a trendsetter, adapting to societal changes and producing meaningful pieces during historical events, such as the caged bird brooch representing the Nazi occupation of France, later transformed into a symbol of freedom.
The exhibition also delves into Cartier’s connection with the British royal family, officially appointed as jewellery designers in 1904. The Halo Tiara, featuring 800 diamonds, has been worn by several royals and signifies Cartier’s enduring status in royal jewellery.
The Cartier exhibition at the V&A museum offers a captivating glimpse into the rich heritage and artistry of this iconic jewellery brand. From royal pieces to modern celebrity glamour, the display highlights Cartier’s ability to stay relevant while pioneering luxury design. The collection showcases the brand’s historical significance, cultural inspirations, and connection to the British monarchy, making it a must-see event until October 2023.
Original Source: www.straitstimes.com