The Age of Grandeur

Focusing solely on the 19th century, Age of Grandeur expands on Daniela Mascetti and David Bennett's best-selling Understanding Jewellery, bringing with it over 250 new colour photographs. From the authors of Understanding Jewellery, considered to be one of the most important and frequently referenced books on jewelry ever produced, Age of Grandeur focuses solely on the 19th century, bringing with it over 250 new color photographs of jewelry from this most celebrated era. Taking the reader through the history of jewelry over the decades, we learn how and why particular styles came about and then changed. From Napoleonic classicism and Victorian sentimental and memorial jewelry, through the Romantic era and its penchant for naturalism, the Gothic style and recreation of the Renaissance and, finally, the unique designs of the Arts and Crafts and Art Nouveau periods, this comprehensive study enlightens and fascinates. With stunning photographs accompanying us on our journey through the decades, creating a rich visual history that brings the text to life, this book remains the essential bible on 19th-century jewelry.

Regarded internationally as a leading authority in the field of precious stones and jewelry, David Bennett spent 42 years in the role of Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby's jewelry division, a post he held until 2020. During his prestigious career, David sold three of the five most-expensive jewels in auction history, as well as seven 100-carat diamonds, earning him the nickname the ‘100-carat man’. David has also presided over many legendary, record-breaking auctions, such as the Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor (1987), The Princely Collections of Thurn und Taxis (1992) and Royal Jewels from the Bourbon-Parma Family (2018). Daniela Mascetti is one of the jewelry world's most experienced scholars specializing in the history of jewelry. Daniela joined Sotheby’s in 1980, opening the firm’s jewelry department in Milan shortly afterwards. Following a distinguished career of 40 years at Sotheby’s, she was appointed Jewellery Chairman of Europe, a position she retained until 2020. Highlights from Daniela's distinguished career include research for the sales of historic collections such as the Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor (1987), The Princely Collections of Thurn und Taxis (1992), Elton John, Maria Callas and Gina Lollobrigida.

Foreword Acknowledgements 1. 1750–1820 2. 1820–1840 3. 1840–1860 4. 1860–1880 5. 1880–1900 Bibliography Index