The Bite Magazine - Spring/Summer 2025 - Issue 37

V&A South Kensington Jada Brookes explores Cartier’s exquisite jewellery craftsmanship and the V&A’s major exhibition on the brand. F ew names in the luxury world possess the gravity and grandeur of Cartier. The brand, synonymous with refinement, craftsmanship, and innovation, has remained a defining force in jewellery design for over a century. This year, the Victoria and Albert Museum in London’s South Kensington presents an extraordinary exhi- bition celebrating the Maison’s unparalleled legacy, offering a rare and intimate journey through the evolution of Cartier’s artistry. Founded in Paris in 1847 by Louis-François Cartier, the brand gained a reputation for exquisite craftsmanship and innovative design. By the early 20th century, it had become the preferred jeweller of royalty and high society, earning the title ‘Jeweller of King, King of Jewellers’ from King Edward VII of England. Louis Cartier’s pioneering approach to design further propelled the brand’s success, introducing the world to Art Deco elegance and iconic watchmaking marvels such as the Santos and Tank models. As Cartier expanded beyond France, establishing boutiques in London and New York, its designs reflected diverse influ- ences, drawing from Indian, Persian, and Chinese art. The Maison’s ability to fuse cultural elements with technical bril- liance, such as enamelled plaques, miniature paintings, and various motifs, using the technique of ‘apprêts’, made its cre- ation timeless and forward-thinking. Cartier continues to be an emblem of sophistication, blending heritage with contem- porary vision. The Cartier exhibition is an ambitious and immersive ex- biteexhibition Cartier Exhibition