The name Cartier epitomizes elegance, glamour and craftsmanship equal to none.... Family founded in Paris in 1847, Cartier's exceptional and enduring worldwide reputation has made it the foremost company specializing in one-of-a-kind jewelry & personal accessories. Cartier In The 20th Century, a new book released today (cover above), provides an in-depth account of Cartier's company history, roots of its designs, and an intimate look at pieces crafted for international royalty, members of the wealthy elite, and classic Hollywood darlings.
An important aspect to this legendary company is how history's timeline influenced the designs of the day. Elements discussed in detail include -- How the rise in the popularity of smoking prompted custom cigarette cases, lighters, and additional accessories.... The introduction of travel to exotic foreign lands inspired styles of period pieces.... Fashion, for both men & women, impacted creative composition.... And coming through darker moments in our world history - The Great Depression and 2 World Wars - ignited a time following of breakthrough design and luxury indulgence.
The painstaking attention Cartier is known for, is extended to the packaging of the book, designed with a slipcase box for cover protection. Continuing inside, the exquisite photographs - 458 color and black & white - document the owners of precious commissioned pieces and the intricate details of Cartier's vast collection..... Images included below. Highly recommended!
*I have The Vendome Press to thank for graciously providing me with an advance copy to preview.
Necklace, Cartier London, Special Order, 1932
p. 59, #50. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh.
Tutti Frutti Double Clip Brooch, Cartier Paris, Special Order, 1935
p. 117, #119. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh.
Desk Set with Clock, Cartier Paris for Cartier New York, 1931
p. 161, #164. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh.
Vanity Case, Cartier Paris, 1927
pp. 106-107, #100 -- Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh.
Santos Wristwatch, Cartier Paris, 1916
p. 168, #178. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh
Cigarette Case, Cartier Paris, 1912
p. 182, #198. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh.
Cuff Links, Cartier Paris, 1929
p. 186, #202. Pierre Cartier Foundation. Photo Credit: Nils Herrmann.
Tiger Lorgnette, Cartier Paris, Special Order, 1954
p. 234, #245. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nick Welsh.
Necklace, Cartier Paris, 1951
p. 259, #270. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Marian Gerard.
Flamingo Brooch, Cartier Paris, Special Order, 1940
p. 234, #244. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nils Herrmann.
Travel Bar Kit, Cartier New York, About 1930
pp. 176-177, #194. Cartier Collection. Photo Credit: Nils Herrmann.