The Victoria and Albert Museum presents “Cartier: Crafting the Exceptional,” its first major exhibition on Cartier in 30 years. Featuring over 350 pieces, it traces Cartier’s evolution and influence from its Parisian roots to global status. Notable exhibits include royal commissions and iconic jewellery, highlighting craftsmanship and cultural significance.
The Victoria and Albert Museum in London has unveiled its first significant exhibition in nearly 30 years, titled “Cartier: Crafting the Exceptional.” Featuring over 350 pieces, including high jewellery, watches, and royal commissions, the exhibition highlights Cartier’s evolution from a small Parisian workshop to a global icon of elegance and artistry.
The exhibition showcases the transformation of Cartier under the leadership of Louis-François Cartier’s grandsons. They established the brand’s presence in major cities like Paris, London, and New York, earning the title “the jeweler of kings and the king of jewelers,” with a clientele that included European royalty and celebrities.
One notable piece is the 1953 Williamson Diamond brooch, commissioned by Queen Elizabeth II, which boasts a 23.6-carat pink diamond. The exhibition also features items worn by famous figures such as Princess Margaret and Grace Kelly, highlighting Cartier’s bold style.
Designer Asif Khan MBE created an immersive exhibition space, merging light, sound, and the beauty of Cartier’s pieces. Khan aims to create a dreamlike atmosphere where visitors can feel the essence of history and modernity coexisting.
The exhibition is divided into three distinct sections:
1. Creative Vision and the Birth of a Style: Discusses Cartier’s early inspirations and design codes, showcasing pieces like the “Garland Style” tiaras and the 1925 Art Deco brooch.
2. The Workshop as Laboratory: Focuses on Cartier’s technical skills, featuring the evolution of the panther motif, the Patiala necklace, and iconic wristwatches, highlighting innovation in craftsmanship.
3. Shaping an Icon: Examines Cartier’s branding and associations with cultural icons, including Grace Kelly’s engagement ring and how the brand has maintained its relevance through generations.
The exhibition culminates with an exquisite display of tiaras, including pieces not previously seen, such as the Opal Tiara worn at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation and the Scroll tiara famously worn by Rihanna.
Curators Helen Molesworth and Rachel Garrahan note, “Cartier is more than a jewellery house. It’s a mirror of modern luxury and a trailblazer of culture.”
Overall, “Cartier: Crafting the Exceptional” illustrates the craftsmanship and cultural significance of Cartier, confirming its enduring status in the world of luxury jewellery.
The V&A’s “Cartier: Crafting the Exceptional” exhibition offers a captivating look at Cartier’s history and influence over the past century. Through an impressive array of pieces and a thoughtfully designed experience, it demonstrates the brand’s artistry, technical innovation, and cultural relevance, shining a light on its role as a leader in luxury jewellery.
Original Source: hauteliving.com