
A private collection of 150 works by Carl Fabergé
May 2012.
The exhibition included a miniature gold box in the form of a Doge’s hat in yellow enamelled gold simulating satin, and another wittily representing a coal scuttle. They were shown alongside numerous studies of animals including striding elephants, chimpanzees and pouter pigeons carved from coloured hardstones. A vessel in the form of an African drum, a scent flacon in the form of a miniature tube of paint and a compact in the form of an enamelled egg display not only Carl Fabergé’s own creativity but the discrimination of the collector, who has spent over thirty-five years assembling this remarkable group of objects. Amongst the most delicate pieces are rare flower studies as well as examples of jewellery, the most iconic being a platinum gem-set latticework brooch that echoes the design of the Mosaic Egg in the Royal Collection.
The exhibition was held to benefit the Samaritans and all funds raised will go directly to the charity. Samaritans is a confidential emotional support service for anyone in the UK and Ireland, available twenty four hours a day for people who are experiencing feelings of distress or despair, including those which may lead to suicide.