Dynastic Jewels

Highlighting the significance of jewellery as an enduring expression of power and status, while emphasising its sentimental value and role as a mark of royal favour, the exhibition presents pieces associated with the reign and legend of some of the most notable figures in European history including Empresses Catherine the Great, Joséphine Bonaparte, Marie-Louise, Eugénie and Queen Victoria. From legendary gemstones and historic tiaras to spectacular brooches, diadems and necklaces, it presents resplendent pieces intended to be worn in the opulent settings of Europe’s royal courts, where they could articulate the status, heritage and authority of their owners.

The third in a trilogy of exhibitions held in collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum, London, this exhibition brings together rare, important and historic jewels from the collections of both the V&A and The Al Thani Collection, many of which are on display in France for the first time. 

The exhibition is complemented by loans from other renowned institutions including the Historic Royal Palaces thanks to the generosity of His Grace the Duke of Fife, Musée du Louvre, Muséum national d'histoire naturelle, Musée de Minéralogie Mines Paris – PSL, and the heritage collections of Cartier, Chaumet, Mellerio and Van Cleef & Arpels.

The exhibition is organised by The Al Thani Collection Foundation and the Centre des Monuments Nationaux in collaboration with the Victoria and Albert Museum. It is curated by Dr Emma Edwards, Project Curator, Victoria and Albert Museum.