LEAGUE OF EXTRAORDINARY OBJECTS
Truly a unique showcase of rare antiques, exquisite art, and contemporary fine jewellery, the Biennale des Antiquaires is an annual event that draws the best dealers and tastemakers. Known as one of the most prestigious events of its kind, with a history of over 50 years, exhibitors include brands such as Bulgari, Van Cleef & Arpels, and Cartier, Cartie as well as Hong Kong-based jeweller, Wallace Chan – the only Asian As jeweller invited to exhibit at the Biennale des Antiquaires. Highlights this year include an ink-and-paper collage work called “Quatre Femmes” by Le Corbusier, and decorative items that date back to the early Han Dynasty. Cartier will present some of its most spectacular stones, including The Absolute Pure Diamond, a D colour, Internally Flawless 30.21-carat brilliantcut pear-shaped diamond. Other breathtaking precious stones and pearls includes the Royal Pearl that boasts a weight of 166.18 grains (8.3 grammes) in a perfectly symmetrical drop shape. Still in its original setting, the majestic pearl adorns a transformable piece of jewellery that can be worn either as a tiara, necklace or individually as a pendant. The 27th Biennale des Antiquaires will take place at the Grand Palais, Paris, from September 11 to 21. www.biennale-paris.com Exceptional stones from Cartier Cosmetics box in bronze inlaid with gold and silver from the early Han Dynasty, exhibited by Galerie Christian Deydier