Cartier at Grand Palais

In a rare stir of events, the historically clandestine house of Cartier is found on display this month at The Grand Palais.  The brand’s most fascinating pieces, from Cartier’s legendary classicisms to the more severe style moderne creations, as well as the complex tales of royals who commissioned them, are revealed.  It is a single, unprecedented dedication to the timeless luxury of Cartier, offering a mere glimpse into the brand’s eminent influence on the decorative arts.  The exhibition is organized by the Réunion des musées nationaux with the support of Vranken-Pommery Monopole.



 
The collection boasts over 500 pieces of jewellery, precious accessories and antique clocks, with more than a few stand-out pieces well deserving of a special mention.  One such piece is Queen Elisabeth’s 1936 Halo tiara, made by Cartier London, but made famous by the Duchess of Cambridge, who chose to wear it on her wedding day to Prince William.  As such, it is arguably Cartier’s most celebrated piece of jewelry to date.

Prince Rainier III also turned to Cartier for a flawless 10-carat engagement ring for Grace Kelly.  In fact, he continued to commission the jeweler for a number of signed gifts including a series of whimsical broaches, and a famous diamond necklace given to his picturesque bride.  Elizabeth Taylor’s notorious ruby necklace by Cartier is another astonishing piece prominently displayed at the Grand Palais.

Cartier’s Timeless Luxury exhibit is on until February 16^th, 2014 at the Salon d’honneur in Grand Palais.