Dubai‘s art aficionados, brace yourselves for a journey through three thousand years of achingly cool craftsmanship at L’ÉCOLE Middle East. Located at the Dubai Design District, L’ÉCOLE’s latest exhibition, “Gold and Treasures, 3000 Years of Chinese Ornaments,” is a feast for the eyes and an expedition for the curious mind as it dives into the rich history of Chinese goldsmithing.
Upon entering, visitors are greeted by a hundred masterpieces from the illustrious Mengdiexuan Collection of Hong Kong. The private collection offers a rare glimpse into the evolution of gold ornamentation in China, from ancient dynasties to more contemporary pieces. Each artefact, meticulously crafted, tells a story of cultural heritage and artistic evolution. The collection includes everything from hair ornaments adorned with kingfisher feathers, pearls, and gemstones to intricate belt ornaments, bangles, earrings, and garment hooks.
Adding another layer to the display are the gold crystals and nuggets from L’ÉCOLE’s own collection, highlighting the natural beauty and raw forms of the precious metal.
“Known, loved, sought after, coveted, amassed, envied, disputed, and used by many civilizations since man has mastered the secrets of metals, gold has always been one of the most precious and symbolic materials – a sign of values and an instrument of pleasures,” says Olivier Segura, co-curator of the exhibition. This sentiment resonates throughout the exhibition, offering visitors an educational journey that aligns perfectly with L’ÉCOLE’s motto: “Discover, wonder, learn.”
L’ÉCOLE Middle East, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, opened its doors earlier this year, inaugurated by Her Highness Sheikha Latifa bint Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum. The school aims to promote jewellery artistry to beginners, industry insiders, and connoisseurs alike, offering a series of captivating courses designed to educate and inspire.
Running until August 10, the exhibition is a must-visit for anyone with a passion for jewellery, history, or art.
For more information, visit www.lecolevancleefarpels.com.