Pearls are considered one of the world’s oldest gems, and have fascinated humans since ancient times. Jewelry adorned with pearls symbolizes wealth and power, and royalty and aristocrats were proud wear such pieces.This exhibit presents pearl ornaments from ancient times to the present that have been created in England and other European countries. Through their beautiful materials, sophisticated designs and fine craftsmanship, these personal adornments convey the splendid culture of pearl jewelry.This exhibition also covers the history of pearls in Japan. Japanese pearl cultivation has been evolving since 1893, when Mikimoto Kokichi (1858-1954) became the first person in the world to successfully culture semi-round pearls. Before the Meiji Era(1868-1912), pearls were almost never used as personal adornment in Japan, but the rise of the cultured pearl industry led to beautiful pearl jewelry crafted with advanced metalworking techniques.Pearls are truly a gift from the sea. This exhibit will provide a multifaced introduction to their charms.
Pearls―Gift from the Sea
May 30, 2020 to July 26, 2020
Locations
The Shoto Museum of Art
2-14-14 Shoto,
Shibuya-ku, Tokyo 150-0046
Japan
Phone: +81-(0)3-3465-9421