The Cartier Exhibition Not to Be Missed at the V&A Museum London
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Today, we are heading across the Channel to visit an exceptional installation. Just unveiled at the Victoria & Albert Museum in South Kensington, the Cartier exhibition sheds light on the history of the French jeweler through more than 350 objects. Blending craftsmanship and family heritage, the displayed pieces, from stunning gem-encrusted adornments to watches, clocks, and other sumptuous accessories, highlight the marriage of aesthetics and innovation that has made the jeweler renowned. A visit full of sparkle that we’re excited to share with you right here.
The Cartier Exhibition: A Matter of History
Running since April 12 and until November 16, the Cartier exhibition at the V&A Museum South Kensington is definitely an event not to be missed. Indeed, it has been over thirty years since the French jeweler has been showcased in such a way at the London museum. To celebrate this precious moment, the entire history of the house is honored, from 1847 to the present day. The installation radiates the legacy of a family that has successfully evolved a brand with its time, becoming one of the most respected and coveted houses.
Cartier: Between Research and Inspirations
The highlight of the Cartier exhibition at the V&A Museum is the journey back to the genesis of the house’s flagship pieces. Inspired by the world, its cultures, forms, and colors, Louis, Pierre, and Jacques Cartier drew from illustrations, books, and other materials from various corners of the globe to envision their exceptional pieces. From Egypt to Russia, through Japan, Iran, and France, we embark on a world tour discovering the delicate and sparkling details of pieces with multiple influences. We were particularly enchanted by the small Egyptian boxes – of which we were previously unaware.
Furthermore, beyond these inspirations borrowed from other countries, we also discover how the house has built its own heritage. This is partly through iconic pieces that are now inseparable from the Cartier image. Like its totem animal, the panther, or the Love bracelets, which have transcended time without losing their charm.
When Aesthetics and Innovation Unite
In addition to this constant reflection on aesthetics, the Cartier brothers placed great importance on experimentation and innovation. This ambition was notably made possible by choosing to have artisans within the house itself to craft the pieces.
As we progress through our visit, we discover the evolution of the mechanical systems of their clocks, the work on new bold forms of dials or watch bracelets. Additionally, there is a snake-shaped necklace that perfectly adjusts to the neck.
The precious stones are also highlighted, emphasizing the importance of their extraction sites as well as their integration into the jewelry.
Cartier, the Master of Networking
One of the reasons for the success of the Cartier house (in addition to its exceptional pieces) lies in its clientele. Blending prestigious profiles (with well-filled wallets) with figures linked to the arts (from cinema, music, and theater…), the Cartier brothers have managed to make their creations sought after by the greatest, including the royal family. Consequently, we discover pieces loaned by the latter for the Cartier exhibition. Among many others, we observe the splendid Williamson brooch of Queen Elizabeth II or, below, the rose-shaped brooch of Princess Margaret.
The Cartier exhibition at the Victoria & Albert Museum amazes us from display to display. The selection of pieces, including jewelry as well as watches and accessories, allows us to rediscover the full scope of talent and craftsmanship of the house, of which the public may not be fully aware. Moreover, the accompanying sketches add even more richness to the history of these pieces.
The only downside of the exhibition, as you might suspect, is that you need to be patient to admire everything fully. Indeed, the displayed pieces are delicate and rich in details, and sometimes you have to wait a significant amount of time before being able to make your way to discover the treasures nestled within the displays. But the effort is worth it, as the creations have left us speechless and allowed us to learn more about the history of the Cartier house.
The Cartier exhibition at the V&A Museum South Kensington will be on display until November 16, 2025. Be sure to book your visit in advance, as slots fill up quickly!
Also, check out our outing ideas in Paris, including:
- Au fil de l’or – Musée du quai Branly – Jacques Chirac
- La mode en mouvement #3 – Palais Galliera
- Les Créatrices en Rouje – Boutique Rouje, Rue Bachaumont 75002 Paris + Bordeaux et New York City
