Egypte, designed by Cathy Latham in 1970, is a meticulous illustration of pectorals, pendants and other treasures found inside King Tutankhamun’s tomb. Although the Egyptian king’s pristine burial site was discovered between 1922 and 1927, the first comprehensive exhibitions of the valuable objects and artifacts began in the 1960s, culminating with worldwide travelling exhibitions, most notably, The Treasures of Tutankhamun in the 1970s. Cathy Latham created this magnificent design following the first tour of the treasures from the tomb to travel outside of the Museum of Cairo. All of the pieces pictured were part of the exhibition. On the second pic I show it with an Askew London Egyptian-inspired brooch as well as with a replica of King Tut’s death mask that I purchased at The Met Museum gift shop when I first visited the exhibit in 1978.
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Turqueries en l’Honneur de Monsieur de T by JC Donnadieu is also an interesting design based on a historical event. Archives and documents indicate that members of the French Academy in Rome held a “Turkish masquerade” in 1748 during the carnaval celebrations. The director of the French Academy designed the opulent costumes and left a number of etchings. Donnadieu’s parade of costumed characters, both in 18th century fashion and on exotic eastern dress is based on those original etchings. The central medallion depicts a view of Rome’s St. Peter’s Square filled with visitors and attendees to the celebrations.
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Much as Hubert de Watrigant honored the famous annual Andalusian fair in his Feria de Sevilla, he celebrates the renowned Venetian carnival in Carnaval de Venise, which he designed in 1993. Coteries of masked characters, masks and a view of St.Mark’s Square punctuated by allusions of the gondolas and canals are beautifully depicted.
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Zoe Pauwels’ Premieres Mains was created in 2002 and recreates in concept and style the prehistoric paintings found in the walls of the caves of Lascaux in the Dordogne region of France. Believed to have been created 15,000-12,000 years ago. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is valuable world patrimony and this scarf’s graceful illustration is a beautiful tribute to it and to the exceptional art of the prehistoric people of Europe.
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And, finally, an example of one of Hermès’ most beautiful special editions: Pierre Marie’s Promenade a Versailles. This wonderful carré was issued in 2015 as a special limited edition whose proceeds went to benefit the restoration of the royal apartments of the Palace of Versailles.
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