Stage Jewelry of the Comédie-Française: the Sparkling Jug
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Unveiled in the new venue of the École des Arts Joailliers, the Jewelry on Stage exhibition of the Comédie-Française immerses us in a gilded setting. With a focus on the history of theater and the evolution of its jewelry, we discover how the craftsmanship of jewelers has transformed the fake into exceptional pieces. This installation, featuring a carefully crafted set design and radiant pieces, has been extended until October 13.
The Majestic Decor of the Comédie-Française Jewelry on Stage Exhibition
Tucked behind a carriage door on Boulevard Montmartre, the new address of the École des Arts Joailliers Van Cleef & Arpels delights with its small palace spirit. In the courtyard of this 18th-century mansion, we discover workshops behind a steel glass roof. These are topped by a floor that incorporates details from the past, such as a small tower and windows with intricate stained glass.
Thus, we are welcomed by a charming marriage of architectures, resonating with the knowledge shared in this place, between ancestral techniques and innovations.
After climbing a grand marble staircase, we reach the exhibition site, in a softly lit setting. The first space, revealing treasures in the dim light, is adorned with large drapes, inviting this theme of theatricality. Next, we discover a room with a spectacular decor. The ceiling, rich in gilding, sculptures, and paintings transports us through time, making us feel as though we have entered a ballroom. The displayed objects are highlighted between panels of light, offering plays of shadows, while the words of great actors of the time resonate.
Every visitor shares this sense of wonder, and numerous discussions about the quality of the scenography have been heard in every corner of the room!
How do the Comédie-Française’s jewels testify to the history of theater and jewelry?
Sketches, paintings, photographs, collections, video excerpts, and physical pieces are presented to us in the Comédie-Française Jewelry on Stage exhibition. Although the installation is relatively small, the chosen elements offer an interesting perspective on both the history of jewelry and that of theater in correspondence. We trace this chronology with creations worn by great names of the stage, such as Sarah Bernhardt, Talma, and Rachel.
We discover the influence of history on the choice of stage costumes, as well as the evolution of jewelry since the 18th century, from decorative pieces to elements characterizing a character. The aspect of technique is at the heart of this exhibition, drawing a parallel between stage jewelry and that of daily life. And notably, how to imitate the real with the fake, using non-precious materials, yet crafted with just as much skill and precision.
We observe tiaras, crowns, and other adornments and accessories with fascinating details, even though they are “fake” pieces.
It is thus a beautiful discovery, both through the spectacular place we enter and through all its exhibited pieces, celebrating theater and the jewelry artisans.
The Comédie-Française Jewelry on Stage exhibition can be visited until October 13, at 16 bis Bd Montmartre, 75009. (entry by ticket / free – online reservation)
We’ll see each other soon for a recap of the second part of the exhibition Fashion in Motion!
