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Home / Exhibits
Verdura: The Life and Work
of a Master Jeweler
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November 16, 2007 - February 17, 2008
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November 16, 2007 - February 17, 2008
Timeless, elegant and distinctly original, Verdura jewelry has been coveted by royalty, Hollywood and high society for nearly 70 years. In the premiere exhibition, Verdura jewels dating from the 1930s with original design sketches will be on public display in Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler in The Smith Gem Vault from November 16, 2007 through February 17, 2008.
More than any other designer of the twentieth century, Duke Fulco di Verdura (1898–1978) elevated jewelry to the status of an art form. Born a Sicilian Duke, his creations were inspired by classical patterns and natural forms, brightened with intense colors and infused with a sophisticated wit that Verdura displayed throughout his intensely creative life.
Over time, Verdura’s designs have caught the eye of many of the world’s most iconic women, including Joan Crawford; Jean Howard; Princess Diana; Doris Duke; Katharine Hepburn; Lynn Wyatt; Nan Kempner and Greta Garbo. The curb-link bracelet watch, which will be on display in the exhibit, was Garbo’s favorite throughout her life. The “Garbo-watch” will sit alongside other treasures such as Coco Chanel’s original Maltese Cross Cuffs, the Wrapped Heart Brooch, the Tragedy and Comedy Mask Brooch created for Clare Boothe Luce and Verdura’s famous shell brooch.
Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler will be on display inside at the Museum, a permanent exhibition where intensely hued jeweled masterpieces float vibrantly in utter darkness. Since its debut in November 2006, The Smith Gem Vault has acquired a dazzling reputation as an exhibition of some of the most mesmerizing cut and polished jewels ever displayed in a single exhibit. Admission to Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler is included in admission to the Museum’s permanent exhibition halls.
Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweler is underwritten locally by Bank of America.
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