Megan Evans,

Correspondent (Fashion)

 

PARIS – The Biennales des Antiquaires graced the world’s finest in antiques and arts clientele this year after its customary year of absence. The stunning showcase of the most exclusive works of art and antiques was held at the Grand Palais, Paris in the midst of early autumn.

Karl Lagerfeld, legendary high fashion designer, created this year’s decor going for a look inspired by the Belle Epoque era. Using a blue and white hot air balloon as its centerpiece,  the scene within the Grand Palais was one of charm and delight; a perfect backdrop for the elegant, sophisticated exhibition. Lagerfeld, like the patrons who attend the Biennale, claims himself to be a lover of all things rare and beautiful. Therefore, it is no wonder that his vision was so thoughtfully accurate when dressing the Grand Palais for this wonderful occasion.

Alongside the masterpieces of fine art at the exhibition this year were mountains of diamonds, fashioned into stunning creations by ‘high jewellers’ such as Harry Winston, Boucheron and Cartier, to name just a few. These pieces, described as masterpieces in their own right, were presented together with classic antique jewels that have stood the test of time.

Each of the jewellery houses created their designs specifically for this prestigious event. An impressive display of elaborate stands houses each gem quite literally, as the designers create a ‘mini maison’ for their collections. The maisons, always different in style, generate a mood in which to gaze at the collections – an opulent temple of luxury was the case of Chanel’s previous display where miniature works of art and comfy sofa’s were used. Dior’s last display was cute and quirky inspired by the Georgian era, again, oozing lavish extravagance.

It was a year of first’s for the Biennale this time round, as Hong Kong based jeweller Wallace Chan was the first ever Asian to show at the exhibition. Needless to say, this caused a great deal of anticipation. Spectators were not disappointed as Chan flaunted his dazzling, imaginative and colourful gem set, which took the form of insects, reptiles and butterflies. The ornaments were truly beautiful and worthy of adoration. This kind of genius does not come cheap, as one of his pieces, made out of imperial Jade and holding two striking rubies priced up at an immense €30 million! Also new to the scene was high fashion house Bulgari, who boasted beautiful pieces of white gold, laden with rubies sapphires and diamonds.

The level of creativity at the Biennales was truly astonishing. One particularly memorable exhibitor, Cartier, had all eyes set on their magnificent 148-piece collection inspired by ‘Depaysement ‘or the appreciation of a ‘change of scenery’. Thematically organised into ‘landscapes’, the precious gems reflected architecture, geometry, icy beauty, luxury and dazzling sparkle. The solar landscape collection was exceptionally beautiful, using rich warm tones of yellow sapphires, onyx and orange diamonds.

One design was worthy of particular mention; the Solar Tiger bracelet is superbly crafted out of white gold, soft orange and brown shades of diamonds and onyx. They eyes of the tiger are mesmerising orange diamonds, fierce and bright. The artistry gone into creating this bracelet is beyond brilliant, and is a shining example of how all of the magnificent jewels exhibited, have been fabricated into irresistible works of art, something truly rare and beautiful.