A Real Gem
Although a sphere is the first shape that comes to mind when one thinks of pearls, a new exhibit at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum proves sculptural tarantulas or decorative ballerinas are equally possible. Rare and remarkable pieces from the Ancient Roman Empire introduce a story that ends with contemporary treasures in all shapes and sizes. And some are even round.
Pearls, an exhibition presented from the V&A and the Qatar Museums Authority, is on exhibit at London’s Victoria and Albert Museum through January 19, 2014.
Earrings gold with pearls and diamonds France 1795-1810
© Victoria and Albert Museum London
Grand Jete Geoffrey Rowlandson London 1999
© Geoffrey Rowlandson
Cross pendant gold with rubies and pearls Germany 1500-25
© Victoria and Albert Museum
Necklace pearls set in coloured gold probably England ca.1850
© Victoria and Albert Museum
Hair ornament set with pearls emeralds and sapphires Roman 3rd Century
The Trustees of the British Museum
The Rosebery Tiara QMA Collection.
Photo © Sothebys
A selection of natural pearls from the Qatar Museums Authority collection
Creutz
Frozen by Sam Tho Duong collection of Qatar Museums Authority
Marc Pelletreau Samaar Kassab QMA
Hemmerle Tarantula Brooch.
Courtesy Hemerle
