Tatler journeys from Cartier’s past to its present with the launch of the latest Nature Sauvage high jewellery exhibition in Shanghai, while the maison’s Power of Magic exhibition offers a glimpse into the brand’s heritage
Shanghai is a city of contrasts: both modern skyscrapers and historic low-rises line the Huangpu River. There’s so much to learn from this city when it comes to adapting to changing times while keeping its soul alive, so it was no wonder that Cartier chose to hold its latest high jewellery exhibition there. It’s a fitting backdrop for a celebration that revisits a storied past while embracing the future.
Our journey began with the latest chapter in the Nature Sauvage high jewellery collection. The exhibition showcased 400 pieces that explored Cartier’s emblematic fauna in ways that were both surprising and enchanting. The animals were crafted almost like optical illusions, and they appeared only when you looked at the designs closely.
Among the standouts was The Vamana Necklace. This piece reimagines the elephant motif in an abstract form, capturing the creature’s grandeur through minimalist outlines that emphasise large, exaggerated ears and an elongated trunk, all highlighted with diamonds arranged in sharp geometric patterns. The piece is made even more dramatic thanks to two vivid emeralds, which serve as the creature’s eyes, drawing attention to the face, which at first appears hidden, amid the sparkle of diamonds.
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Cartier, the Power of Magic exhibit at Shanghai Museum East (Photo: courtesy of Cartier)
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The exploration of the animal kingdom within this new chapter is also seen in the Wani Necklace, which transforms the crocodile into a piece of art. This necklace features the reptile’s body shimmering with a pattern of lozenge-shaped diamond scales set against a backdrop of emerald paving. The design captures the essence of the animal, with a tail that curves gracefully around the wearer’s neck. The final touch comes from the three cabochon-cut Zambian emeralds with a total weight of 27.83 carats, that dangle like pendants from its body.
Tatler had the opportunity to take part in a masterclass led by a high jewellery artisan from Cartier’s headquarters. We were guided step by step through the intricate process of chiselling and shaping our own wax panther, bringing the iconic Cartier symbol to life. This hands-on experience deepened our appreciation for the artistry involved in high jewellery creation and allowed us to connect personally with the craftsmanship that defines the Maison.
The following day, I eagerly anticipated the Cartier, the Power of Magic exhibition, which opened on November 4, at the Shanghai Museum East. It not only provided a peek into Cartier’s history but also marked a significant moment in cultural dialogue between China and France as part of the Sino- French Year of Cultural Tourism. More than 300 creations from The Cartier Collection were displayed alongside nearly 40 pieces of Chinese art.
