Timeless Seduction
The Italian Trade Commission showcases elegant coral and the cameo carving technique at the 33rd Hong Kong International Jewellery Show
Exquisite coral and a traditional method of carving known as cameo made for a stunning fusion of art and jewellery at the 33rd Hong Kong International Jewellery Show, held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre (HKCEC) in March. The stunning exhibit, titled Timeless Seduction: Coral and Cameo Between Memory and Modernity, was jointly presented by the Italian Trade Commission and the Italian organisation Assocoral (the National Association of Coral and Cameo Producers of Italy). Some 22 sets of coral and cameo jewellery were showcased at the exhibition, with a total of more than 100 items on display.
The exhibition ran from March 3 to 7, with the Italian Trade Commission hosting a cocktail event to celebrate at the HKCEC’S Mezzanine 4 on March 4, where guests included Hong Kong socialites such as Winnie Chan, Anina Ho, Sharon Kwok-pong, Stanley Pong, Harriet Tung and Jeanny da Silva.
Well-known curator Cristina Del Mare, who has more than 10 years’ experience of anthropological and cultural shows under her belt, put the display together. She explained that the aim was to reignite the relationship between “heritage and innovation.”
The exhibition focused on the cultural heritage of the combination of coral and cameo, and how it has been reimagined by modern jewellers. Using photographs and paintings, the showcase depicted “a journey that unravels the fascinating connection between fashion and jewellery.”
The display also featured a number of classical images, including one of the magnificent branch of coral that dominates the famous altarpiece of the by Andrea Mantegna, which is now displayed in the Louvre. In addition to the celebration of craftsmanship and design, the exhibition showcased Italian jewellers’ modern takes on intricate lapidary work, from earrings to necklaces and bracelets.
Paola Guida, the Italian trade commissioner for Hong Kong and Macau, hopes the Timeless Seduction: Coral and Cameo Between Memory and Modernity exhibition impressed the public, major importers, merchandisers and potential customers. “This exhibition is a unique event, offering an unforgettable experience that showcases how Italian creations stand tall on the world map of jewellery,” she says.
The Italian Trade Commission also took part in the 3rd Hong Kong International Diamond, Gem and Pearl Show at the Asiaworld-expo, also held in March, where it displayed a broad selection of loose stones and raw materials.