In a mesmerizing celebration of jewellery and history, L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, has inaugurated its latest exhibition, Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection, in the heart of Dubai Design District (d3).
This exhibition, the largest of its kind ever showcased publicly, features an astonishing 705 rings from the iconic Yves Gastou collection, offering an intimate look into the enduring allure of men’s rings across centuries and cultures. The grand opening welcomed distinguished figures from the worlds of art, design, and jewelry, bringing a heightened focus to this historic art form just in time for the 10th anniversary of Dubai Design Week, the region’s preeminent design festival.
The exhibition’s arrival in Dubai symbolizes a perfect blend of the emirate’s deep-seated heritage and its appetite for modern, global design. As Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East, noted, “Bringing the Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection to Dubai is an honour. This collection resonates deeply with Dubai’s unique blend of tradition and modernity.” Reflecting on the remarkable turnout, Claudel added, “The vibrant art and design scene here is a testament to the shared appreciation for cultural heritage and craftsmanship that this city embodies.”
On display are rings curated by the late Yves Gastou, a celebrated French antique dealer who dedicated 40 years to collecting rings that span history, art, and culture. Gastou’s son, Victor, who was present for the unveiling, shared heartfelt insights about his father’s life’s work. “For my father, rings were magical,” he remarked. “He saw them not only as symbols of connection and power but as deeply personal artifacts that could transcend time.”
This collection, which began its journey in Paris in 2018 and has traveled through cities like Tokyo, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, now finds itself in Dubai with an expanded array of pieces. New additions to the collection have been made exclusively for this exhibition, giving audiences an unmatched look at ring-making across centuries – from the sacred and ceremonial rings of ancient Egypt to contemporary designs of the modern world.
The exhibition’s scenography presents a visual and sensory journey inspired by Gastou’s eclectic tastes and deep fascination with the dramatic. Three themed rooms evoke distinct moods and experiences: the Dark Room mimics a nighttime street ambiance, the Red Room captures Gastou’s bold personality with vibrant reflections and striking red tones, while the White Room embodies a serene, minimalist space reminiscent of Gastou’s inner world. Carefully curated lighting emphasizes the intricate craftsmanship of each ring, illuminating their details in ways that highlight their history and artistry.
The exhibition, which runs until April 26, 2025, offers more than just a visual experience. On the 9th of November L’ÉCOLE will host a Public Open Day, inviting the community to explore interactive displays and hands-on activities. Visitors can participate in workshops, guided tours, and even a movie screening in partnership with Cinema Akil, bringing to life the intersection of jewelry and cinema.
Additionally, L’ÉCOLE Middle East has launched new jewelry courses open to the public, including The Making of a Jewel and Discovering the World of Gemstones. These courses aim to deepen appreciation for the art of jewelry-making and are part of L’ÉCOLE’s mission to make the jewelry arts accessible to all.
L’ÉCOLE Middle East continues its philanthropic collaboration with Dubai Cares, a UAE-based global charity. Proceeds from public courses and events will be donated to Dubai Cares, supporting youth education programs worldwide. This partnership underscores L’ÉCOLE’s commitment to both the arts and social responsibility, contributing to the empowerment of future generations.
The exhibition is free to go to, however visitors are encouraged to register in advance.
