From 'Japonisme,' Delicate Jewelry That Captures Culture's Essence

[Caitlin]

Fabulous Exhibit!


By SUZY MENKESPublished: May 16, 2011

A long spray of cherry blossom, its flower heads trembling — what could be a more graceful reminder of tranquility and beauty at a turbulent and tragic time for Japan? Enlarge This Image

K. Faerbar

A floral brooch designed by Vever of two chrysanthemums in white pearl.

Enlarge This Image

Private collection Monaco

A waterscape pendant by Lucien Gaillard.


But this image of nature, set in diamonds, is more than just an object of beauty and desire. It shows that Ren? Lalique, one of the great jewelers of his time, was in thrall to Japanese culture.
The “chrysanthemum throne” is celebrated with that flower as a dense cluster of Mississippi River pearls from both Tiffany & Co. and from the French jeweler Vever. They are both in an exhibition at Wartski, the London jeweler that fashioned the Welsh gold ring that Prince William put on Kate Middleton’s finger.

 

[pattye]

Aren't those lovely! Thanks, Caitlin!