Presented by L’ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, the new exhibition titled “An Eye for Beauty, the Illuminata Jewelry Collection” promises to be a captivating journey into the world of collecting by an eminent collector from Hong Kong.
Featuring around 50 diverse artifacts, the exhibition represents a fusion of Western and Eastern aesthetics. It showcases European and Chinese masterpieces that reflect the refined taste of an esteemed private collector and connoisseur. Hence, visitors will embark on a journey to explore the concept of beauty from various perspectives, emphasizing the notions of versatility and transformation over 300 years of art history.
Ruby necklace with detachable pendant,
18th century,
Diamonds, rubies, and silver,
The Illuminata Collection
This seventh exhibition of L’ÉCOLE in Hong Kong will be divided into three chapters, each representing a unique facet of the collector’s passionate journey. The first section will present exquisite examples of Ming-era furniture, celebrating the harmonious blend of craftsmanship and elegance. The main section will feature approximately 40 pieces of Western jewelry from the 18th and 19th centuries, spanning styles from the Baroque, Victorian, Belle Époque, and Edwardian eras. In addition, a selection of contemporary pieces by renowned designers such as JAR and Carnet will be on display, highlighting the intimate connection between jewelry and the wearer's body. To further emphasize this personal dimension, three ladies' garments will be paired with precious ornaments, showcasing the freedom that collectors possess in expressing their personal style with jewelry. The last section of the exhibition devoted to Qing court jewels aims to provide insights into heritage and its evolution across generations.
Brooch by Köchert,
Circa 1890-1895,
Pearl, diamonds, rubies, silver, and gold,
The Illuminata Collection
Opened in November 13 2023, the curated exhibition is led by Nicolas Luchsinger, President of Van Cleef & Arpels Asia Pacific, with valuable contributions from Mathilde Rondouin, Art Historian at L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts. The central theme of the exhibition revolves around the collector's journey, exploring the interconnected aspects of beauty, jewelry, and transformation.
L'ÉCOLE warmly invites visitors to immerse themselves into the enchanting world of “An Eye for Beauty” and uncover the captivating stories behind these extraordinary pieces, which are being unveiled to the public for the very first time.