Cartier Exhibition at the Grand Palais from 4th December

4 October 2013

Cartier: Style and History, a Showcase in Paris Close to Hotel Balzac

Cartier is a jeweller deeply embedded into Paris and its boutique culture. Cartier: Style and History will delve into the pivotal role the jeweller has had in the development of the decorative arts. It will explore its diverse collection of creations, including the classical, the radically modern and the regal. Some 500 pieces of exquisite jewellery will be showcased at the exhibition, while paintings, posters and furniture will also be in attendance.

The Cartier Panther and Royal Connections

The Panther is an image present throughout the works and is perhaps the House of Cartier's most iconic symbol. It first appeared in 1914 as a subtle arrangement of gems on a watch, and has since gone on to feature across the range. When Jeanne Toussaint was elected Director of Fine Jewellery in 1933, the men around her were astonished by her strength, ambition and grace. For this reason, for the first time ever, femininity was explored through the metaphor of the panther and it came to appear on necklaces, broaches and bracelets. The Panther was a design fiercely desired, so much so that it was ordered in form of a bracelet by Wallis Simpson, who married Edward VIII and became the Duchess of Windsor. Cartier also created a jewel-encrusted flamingo clip marked with the initials 'W.E.' for the couple's 20th anniversary.

Paris Boutique Culture and the Five-Star Hotel Balzac

Paris has been a place of boutiques for centuries, and has long attracted connoisseurs and admirers of fashion, jewels and decoration. The Grand Palais is an imposing exhibitor of garment design, contemporary art and French antiques that brings boutique culture under one glass roof. It is situated just off the Champs-Élysées, much like the 5 star Hotel Balzac, which is around a 15 minute walk away.

Should you wish to stay in Hotel Balzac, our luxury Paris hotel, for the Cartier exhibition then take advantage of our best available online rates and our offers here.