L’ÉCOLE Middle East, the School of Jewelry Arts supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, is set to launch its highly anticipated “Through the Lens of L’ÉCOLE Middle East” series.
The inauguralevent in the series, titled “BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art”, will delve into the fascinating interplay of art history and gemology, spotlighting 11 iconic pieces from the permanent collection of Louvre Abu Dhabi.
This pioneering collaboration, a confluence of expertise from L’ÉCOLE Middle East and Louvre Abu Dhabi, celebrates a shared mission: to illuminate cultural and historical narratives through the prism of art and craftsmanship.
The series aims to foster dialogue and deepen understanding of the intricate relationships between gemstones, their historical significance, and their enduring artistic and cultural roles.
Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East, describes this partnership as a step toward enriching public appreciation of jewelry arts: “At L’ÉCOLE Middle East, we are dedicated to deepening the understanding of jewelry arts. This collaboration with Louvre Abu Dhabi marks a significant start in our mission to bridge art and jewelry culture through education. Together, we aim to bring light to the cultural narratives and craftsmanship embedded in these extraordinary artifacts.”
Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East
The event will feature an exceptional panel of experts:
- Jérôme Farigoule, Chief Curator at Louvre Abu Dhabi
- Dr. David Usieto Cabrera, Art Historian and Lecturer at L’ÉCOLE Middle East
- Chandra Horn, Gemologist and Lecturer at L’ÉCOLE Middle East
Together, they will explore the cultural, historical, and artistic significance of gemstones, examining their roles in shaping societies, economies, and artistic traditions across millennia.
Highlighting Iconic Artifacts
Among the eleven highlighted masterpieces are:
- Brooch in the form of an eagle (San Marino, 2nd–5th Century CE): An emblem of authority, adorned with gemstones.
- Reliquary in the form of a stupa (Swat Valley): Reflecting spiritual devotion through precious adornments.
- Carnelian necklace (Indus Valley, 3rd millennium BCE): A testament to early craftsmanship and trade.
- Buddhist painting on silk of a standing bodhisattva (700–1200 CE): Gems as symbols of divine enlightenment in religious art.
- Dagger with a parrot-shaped pommel: A ceremonial weapon epitomizing the fusion of utility and artistic prestige.
Event Details
Talk: “BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art with Louvre Abu Dhabi”
- Online Conversation: Monday, 9th December 2024, 3:00 PM (UAE time)
- In-Person Discussion: Tuesday, 10th December 2024, 5:00 PM (UAE time) at Louvre Abu Dhabi. Pre-event tour of the permanent collection begins at 4:00 PM.
Tickets for the event can be purchased online, with the option to join the live-streamed conversation or attend in person.
