Cartier : the exhibition

Margaret Young-Sánchez ; with essays by Martin Chapman, Michael Hall, Stefano Papi, Pierre Rainero, Janet Zapata. Canberra, ACT : National Gallery of Australia, 2018. Quarto, boards in dustjacket (light handling marks and creases), pp. 304, lavishly illustrated, a very good copy.

Never before have so many incredible diamonds, emeralds and other precious stones been seen in Australia. Cartier: The Exhibition showcases more than 300 spectacular items, with loans from royal families, celebrities and the astonishing Cartier Collection itself, in exquisite settings such as royal tiaras, necklaces, brooches and earrings. The publication explores Cartier’s glittering international clientele that included royalty, aristocrats, socialites, and stars of the stage, cinema and music. Highlights include Dame Nellie Melba’s diamond stomacher brooch, the Queen’s “Halo” tiara, worn by Kate Middleton at her wedding to Prince William, Duke of Cambridge, Daisy Fellowes’ Tutti-Frutti Hindu necklace, Barbara Hutton’s imperial jadeite necklace, Princess Grace of Monaco’s 10.48-carat diamond engagement ring, Dame Elizabeth Taylor’s diamond and ruby necklace (a gift from her third husband Mike Todd which also doubles as a tiara) and a selection from the NGA’s exceptional Ballets Russes costumes. As well as an intriguing array of Cartier jewellery, timepieces and precious objects, this publication includes a selection of original preparatory drawings, as well as portraits, historic photographs, film, advertising material, jewellery-making tools and equipment to provide insight into the history of Cartier.