Printemps Asiatique 2022 - ALONG CAME JEAN BAPTISTE… The Maisons and the Toshakhana : An Epoch of Luxury, Taste & Style

With Dr. Usha R Balakrishnan, a highly regarded independent scholar of Indian art & culture and pre-eminent historian of Indian jewellery. She is the Chief Curator of the World Diamond Museum. Usha has a Ph.D. in Ancient Indian Culture and a post-doctorate degree in Museum Studies from New York University, USA.

Abstract

In the 17th century, Jean-Baptiste Tavernier, a French gem merchant arrived in India, drawn by the lure of Golconda diamonds. He made six voyages and conducted a flourishing business, acquiring historic gems such as the Blue Hope and the Regent for King Louis XIV. The road between France and India was opened for the movement of gems & jewels, and taste & style. Captivated by the allure of India and the wealth of India's maharajas, the Maisons (jewellery houses) of France turned to the east – for inspiration, patronage and Toshakhanas (treasure houses) that were brimming with gems and jewels. They created an entirely new genre of jewels that were a fusion of east and west, combining classical Indian forms and motifs with French design sensibility and fine craftsmanship. For their western clientele they created avant garde jewels that combined the flamboyance and colour of Indian gems with the art-deco forms of the early 20th century. In India, white gold and platinum replaced yellow gold, gems were set in claws, mounts became lighter and design inspirations were drawn from fashions in France. This synergism endures today as high-end jewellery houses repeatedly turn to India for inspiration. This talk will explore and present these cross-cultural exchanges.

This event is co-organized by Asia Society France and Printemps Asiatique. Asia Society Hong Kong works closely with our global Asia Society network and brings a variety of programs to our members and supporters. As such, this event will be offered gratuitously to all members of Asia Society Hong Kong upon registration. Please note that your registration information will be shared with Asia Society France for event purpose.