A La Vieille Russie, the renowned gallery, is set to host an exclusive exhibition for admirers of Lalique, featuring a unique collection of the visionary jeweler René Lalique’s drawings and sketches. The exhibition will take place at the gallery in New York City from November 16, 2023, through March 15, 2024, offering a captivating glimpse into Lalique’s creative process. This exceptional showcase encompasses approximately 40 framed designs, works of art, and intricate Lalique jewelry, all available for viewing and purchase.
Spanning the years between 1894 and 1912, these rare drawings and sketches constitute the most extensive compilation of Lalique’s jewelry designs outside of France. Adam Patrick, Managing Director of A La Vieille Russie, underlines the significance of this collection, stating, “This is one of the best and most concise collections of René Lalique’s drawings of his jewelry designs that are on the market today.” The drawings were acquired from a private collector based in London.
A highlight of the exhibition is the unveiling of Lalique’s personal annotations on these drawings, providing valuable insights into his creative process. These notes reveal his meticulous planning and instructions to his goldsmiths and jewelers. Patrick further elaborates, “It shows his thought process that went into creating some of the most important pieces of Art Nouveau jewelry ever produced.”
René Lalique’s innovative approach to jewelry design revolutionized the industry. He fearlessly combined precious and non-precious materials, metals, and stones to craft some of the most iconic pieces of late 19th and early 20th-century jewelry.
A La Vieille Russie’s exhibition history is steeped in presenting collections that are not only visually striking but also educational. This Lalique exhibition offers a rare chance to delve into the mind of a master jeweler, showcasing his multiple talents as an innovator, designer, artist, and jeweler.
One of the remarkable pieces on display is the Lalique butterfly hand mirror, characterized by its extended-triangular form, where the outstretched wings clasp the lower mirrored section, forming the handle. This is a testament to Lalique’s imaginative approach to design and his intricate attention to detail.
Visitors to the exhibit will also have the opportunity to explore a range of Lalique’s pendant designs, such as the twin dandelion flower heads, each threaded with a supporting stem, and the chrysanthemum pendant with naturally flowering blossoms surrounding a central oval diamond. These designs reflect Lalique’s ability to seamlessly blend the organic and the precious.
A La Vieille Russie’s exhibition of Lalique’s necklace design, depicting nine graduated blossoming roses, promises to be another exquisite addition, revealing the artist’s penchant for intricate and timeless creations.
The A La Vieille Russie exhibition not only celebrates the legacy of René Lalique but also uncovers the history and artistry of one of the most significant jewelry pioneers. This event offers a unique opportunity for jewelry enthusiasts and art connoisseurs to experience the brilliance and innovation of René Lalique’s timeless work, which continues to inspire and captivate to this day.
