Grimaldi Forum showcases modern masterpieces of jewelry alongside tiaras once worn by Joséphine de Beauharnais and Marie Louise of Austria.
The guests of the exhibition under the auspices of His Majesty Prince Albert II may enjoy rare pieces some of which will be exhibited for the first time ever. The range includes 250 artworks borrowed from museums and private collections: gemstones, an emerald and pearl-studded chronometer made in early XIX century, tiaras that belonged to Joséphine de Beauharnais and Marie Louise of Austria, and many unique items. The exhibition is coordinated by French journalist and author Stéphane Bern and historian of jewelry Christophe Vachaudez: both are experts in royal court etiquette.
The exhibition is split into six sections all of which tell the whole 240-year-long story of Chaumet jewels from every masterpiece’s creation and symbolism to historic figures who wore them. One of the most exciting sections is the history of tiaras, the ever changing symbol of power. One of the most striking examples is the tiara that once belonged to Empress Joséphine. Her wedding will stay in the books of jewelry history forever. The wreath made of pure diamonds was given to her as a part of a parure.
The exhibition in Monaco is the third one for Chaumet house. In 2017 the retrospective was brought to Beijing, and in 2018 it travelled to Tokyo. The next exhibition titled Chaumet in Majesty; Jewels of Sovereigns Since 1780 is likely to be one of the largest fairs in Europe. While Bvlgari is showcasing Hollywood celebrities’ most beloved jewels in Rome, the principality invites guests to admire royal jewels from July 12 till August 28.
Written by Polina Vorobyova
Translated by Tony Savosin
