They stand elegant and exquisite, casually placed in simple crystal vases, primula, narcissus, a dandelion, a branch of blueberries. They invite us to touch their arched leaves. If we do, we find they are not plucked from the dew at dawn but made of gold, jewels and enamels. Faberg created these remarkably delicate flowers and fruits from botanical
From modest beginnings in Paris to predominance in the world of high fashion, the rise of the house of Cartier is comprehensively chronicled in this lavish volume. In the 1980s Cartier granted Hans Nadelhoffer exclusive access to its archives in order to write the definitive history. Long out of print, Nadelhoffer's exhaustive research has been revived with lush new photography and design sketches of the world's most distinctive and finely crafted jewelry. Through charming and compelling anecdotes, these famed gemsand the elite clientele who don themare brought to life. This fully illustrated account is the essential complement to any jewelry lover's collection, and will satisfy the longings of all those who covet this legendary brand.
Carl Faberge's unparalleled creativity and craftsmanship won him the recognition of the Russian Imperial Court at the turn of the last century. Few objects are as universally loved as his jewel-encrusted Easter eggs crafted for the last two czars of Russia, each containing a surprise. Featured in this delightful introduction to the House of Faberge is a selection of his most celebrated works that have found their way into American collections. Easter eggs are just a portion of this master's prodigious production which comprised over 150,000 jewels, silver pieces, and objects of art. The latter are fantasies in gold, enamel, and hardstone and include elegant picture frames and cigarette cases created for the ruling families of Europe and other wealthy patrons. Intimate glimpses into the world of this ingenious designer are captured through excerpts from letters and quotes from an adoring press. The Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna exclaimed upon receiving a Faberge egg, "It is an unbelievably beautiful and superbly fine piece of work. Faberge is the greatest genius of our time...". The fifty-four choice objects, beautifully photographed, are from American public and private collections. The book also contains a chronology and a reading list.
This new book's cleverly engineered paper replicas of the elegant Faberge eggs exactly simulate the lavishly designed gifts that the Russian nobility gave to one another at Easter. Accompanying the exquisite reproductions is an informative text by the curator of the Forbes Faberge collection. 50 illustrations in full-color, 6 pop-ups.
The chronological arrangement of 1,772 comprehensive citations are translated and annotated in English. Exhibition and auction dates, as well as auction prices are included. ...a work of scholarly significance...comprehensive, not to say exhaustive, and is well presented and easy to use... a most valuable tool.--REFERENCE REVIEWS ...One is filled with awe at the dedication that must have been needed to compile this work. --GEM AND JEWELRY NEWS
A beautifully illustrated book that explores the history and legacy of the House of Faberg , from its origins in Russia--and its role in the glamorous world of the Romanovs--to global recognition The name Faberg has long been a byword for luxury. Combining an entrepreneurial vision for craftsmanship with innovative material sourcing and technical ability, Carl Faberg created an astonishing array of bespoke jeweled and enameled objects at the end of the 19th and beginning of the 20th century. This beautifully illustrated book explores the history and legacy of the House of Faberg , from its origins in Russia--and its role in the glamorous world of the Romanovs--to global recognition. Much of the story is familiar, but less well-known is the important part played by the London branch. Opened in 1903, and the only one outside Russia, it became a choice destination for Edwardian high society and an international clientele. Featuring more than 120 pieces, from delicate flowers to Imperial Easter eggs, and with contributions from leading experts, Faberg A Russian Love Affair celebrates the enduring fascination with this master craftsman's works.
Peter Carl Faberge, court jeweler to the czars, is a name synonymous with beauty, craftsmanship, and sumptuous excess. This exciting book features some of the best photographs ever made of Faberge objects. Over 350 illustrations, 80 in full color.