In Search of “Gold and Treasures: 3000 Years of Chinese Ornaments”

Written by Admin | Jun 5, 2023 8:00:00 PM

L'ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts in Dubai Design District is preparing to host its first exhibition "Gold and Treasures: 3000 Years of Chinese Ornaments”, as part of its grand opening from April 26th to August 10th. The event will offer a unique insight into the rich history of Chinese goldsmithing and at the same time will celebrate the grand opening of L'ÉCOLE's Dubai campus. The exhibition will showcase a hundred masterpieces from the Mengdiexuan Collection, one of Hong Kong’s most remarkable private art collections, with items that date back to three thousand years.

The collection was previously showcased at L'ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts in Paris in December 2022 and will now take centre stage in Dubai’s Design District, a hub dedicated to promoting and nurturing the creative industries in Dubai. The event not only presents stunning artefacts but also provides insights into the cultural and technological context of Chinese gold craftsmanship educating visitors on its origins.

What to expect at the Exhibition?

The collection will feature a variety of treasures that showcase the evolution of Chinese goldsmithing throughout different dynasties. Among the highlights are stunning examples of gold jewellery and ornaments, that were crafted centuries ago in China. Visitors can also look at a display of gold crystals and nuggets from L'ÉCOLE's collection, that offer a glimpse into the natural beauty of the precious metal. These natural formations complement the refined craftsmanship of the gold jewellery, highlighting the inherent charm of gold in its raw form. The event is designed to illustrate the evolution of metalworking techniques, and viewers are encouraged to explore the intricate methods used by Chinese artisans throughout history.

About the Mengdiexuan Collection

Curated by third-generation collectors Betty Lo and Kenneth Chu, the Mengdiexuan Collection is one of Hong Kong's finest private art collections. "Mengdiexuan" translates to "Butterfly Pavilion," hinting at the collectors' unconventional thinking and scholarly approach. The collection focuses on objects that convey the diversity of early Chinese artisanry, challenging perceptions and offering new insights into the cultural heritage of ancient China. Betty Lo and Kenneth Chu's journey into collecting began with a wedding gift of a bronze mirror from Kenneth's father in the 1980’s. This sparked a fascination that led the couple on a decades-long quest to explore the intricacies of Chinese metalworking and gold.

Exploring Chinese gold ornaments was a step into the unknown compared to more familiar genres like bronze, jade, and porcelain, which are considered among China’s noblest fine arts. While these other verticals had countless books and deep scholarship dedicated to them, gold ornaments were often overlooked in scholar circles. Despite the lack of information on gold in Chinese art history, Lo and Chu were driven to uncover details about these overlooked treasures. Over the last three decades, Lo and Chu went deep into the history of Chinese gold ornamentation. Their relentless pursuit of knowledge transformed them into world-leading experts in Chinese gold ornamentation, challenging conventional narratives and shedding light on the true diversity of Chinese craftsmanship.

The Mengdiexuan Collection showcases the creativity and craftsmanship of Chinese artisans through the evolution of techniques, including hammering and chasing, casting, wire and filigree, and granulation. Each object tells a story of cultural exchange and innovation, revealing how gold metalwork evolved over time and became infused with Chinese design. From the earliest uses of gold in the Xia and Shang dynasties to the refined techniques of the Tang and Ming dynasties, the exhibition presents a comprehensive overview of how gold jewellery was made during ancient times in China.

Showcasing the Mengdiexuan Collection based on the progression of goldsmithing also illustrates how gold metalwork was introduced to Chinese culture. Each technique arrived in China at distinct times and was adopted in various regions across the country's cultural and geographic spectrum. This approach invites visitors to engage actively with the history of craftsmanship, fostering a sense of connection and appreciation for the artistry behind each piece.

The "Gold and Treasures: 3000 Years of Chinese Ornaments" will be an unmissable occasion to celebrate China's rich cultural heritage, providing a window into exploration for history enthusiasts, art lovers, or those curious about ancient traditions. Hong Kong has a reputation for harbouring some of the world's most exceptional private collections of Chinese antiquities which are often kept away from the public eye. This unique opportunity to explore these treasures in a public setting makes the event even more compelling and worth attending.

About L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts

L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, is dedicated to the education and appreciation of jewellery craftsmanship. It was founded in Paris in 2012 by the prestigious jewellery house Van Cleef & Arpels and has since expanded its reach globally, with campuses in cities like Shanghai, Hong Kong, and now Dubai. L'ÉCOLE offers a comprehensive curriculum covering various aspects of jewellery, including history, design principles, gemology, and technical skills.

The opening of a L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts, in Dubai signifies a major expansion of its global presence. This new campus offers aspiring professionals in the Middle East a unique opportunity to explore the world of jewellery craftsmanship. Its presence in Dubai reflects the growing interest and appreciation for jewellery arts in the region, fostering a community eager to learn this timeless art form.

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