L’ÉCOLE Middle East to launch the first edition of “Through the Lens of L’ÉCOLE Middle East” series with Louvre Abu Dhabi

“BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art”, Highlighting 11 Iconic Pieces of the Museum’s Permanent Collection Through Art History & Jewelry Experts 

L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, supported by Van Cleef & Arpels, will launch its first edition of “Through the Lens of L’ÉCOLE Middle East” series. The first edition will present a talk titled “BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art” in collaboration with Louvre Abu Dhabi, highlighting the art history and gemology of eleven iconic pieces of the museum’s permanent collection, through the eyes of the experts from both institutions.

The collaboration marks the beginning of a series of events across leading museums and cultural institutions in the region. It reflects the shared commitment of both institutions highlighting the cultural and historical narratives, while deepening the understanding of art history, gemology, and craftsmanship. 

Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East, remarks: “At L’ÉCOLE Middle East, we are dedicated to deepening the understanding of jewelry arts. This collaboration with Louvre Abu Dhabi marks a significant start in our mission to bridge art and jewelry culture through education. ‘Through the Lens of L’ÉCOLE Middle East’ opens new horizons for audiences to engage with the fascinating world of gemstones and their influence on art and history. Together, we aim for this series platform to bring light to the cultural narratives and craftsmanship embedded in these extraordinary artifacts.”

Manuel Rabaté, Director of Louvre Abu Dhabi, adds: “We are honored to collaborate in the inaugural edition of ‘Through the Lens of L’ÉCOLE Middle East’, an initiative that seamlessly blends diverse fields of knowledge and perspectives, aligning with Louvre Abu Dhabi’s vision as a universal museum. By fostering dialogue and uncovering shared human narratives that transcend time, this collaboration with L’ÉCOLE and Van Cleef & Arpels celebrates the intricate connections between art, history, and craftsmanship. The event offers audiences a rare opportunity to delve into the cultural significance of gemstones through the expert insights of distinguished speakers.”

The talk will feature a distinguished panel of experts, including Jérôme Farigoule, Chief Curator at Louvre Abu Dhabi; and L’ÉCOLE Middle East lecturers Dr. David Usieto Cabrera, Art Historian, and Chandra Horn, Gemologist. Together, they will lead audiences through a compelling discussion, examining eleven exceptional pieces from the museum’s permanent collection, and explore the intersection between gemology and art, focusing on the historical significance and materiality of gems, as they shaped artistic traditions, societies and cultural identities across centuries.

Audiences can expect discussions on how gemstones have travelled across continents, shaping economies and societies. Their historical trade routes, their symbolism in power and spirituality, and their artistic integration over the span of time. By examining these artifacts, viewers will gain insights into the enduring connection between humans and gemstones, and how they reflect in their values, aesthetics and beliefs.

Highlighted Artifacts from Louvre Abu Dhabi:

• Brooch in the form of an eagle (San Marino, 2nd–5th Century CE): A stunning example of early European jewelry, reflecting the use of gemstones to convey authority and grandeur
• Reliquary in the form of a stupa (Swat Valley): Adorned with gemstones, this reliquary signifies devotion and protection, highlighting the spiritual role of material objects
• Carnelian necklace from the Indus Valley (3rd millennium BCE): A symbol of early craftsmanship and trade, this necklace demonstrates the ancient significance of carnelian as a mark of status and beauty
• Buddhist painting on silk of a standing bodhisattva (700–1200 CE): Exemplifies the spiritual use of gemstones, with precious stones adorning religious art to symbolize divine enlightenment
• Dagger with a parrot-shaped pommel: A ceremonial weapon showcasing how gemstones elevate functional objects into symbols of prestige and artistry

“Through the Lens of L’ÉCOLE Middle East” Series

Talk: “BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art with Louvre Abu Dhabi”

Dates: Monday 9th December (online) & Tuesday 10th December (in-person), 2024 

Speakers: 

• Dr. David Usieto Cabrera; Art Historian and Lecturer at L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts
• Chandra Horn; Gemologist and Lecturer at L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts
• Jérôme Farigoule; Chief Curator at Louvre Abu Dhabi 

Location: Louvre Abu Dhabi, Saadiyat – Abu Dhabi

The conversation series will launch with a live-streamed talk on the 9th of December, at 3:00 pm (UAE time), easily accessed on (BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art with Louvre Abu Dhabi (ONLINE CONVERSATION) | L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts), followed by an in-person talk on the 10th of December at Louvre Abu Dhabi, commencing at 5:00 pm (UAE time) where audiences are welcomed in at 4:00 pm (UAE time) for a tour of the permanent collection with L’ÉCOLE experts. Tickets can be bought online here BEJEWELED: A Symphony of Gemology and Art with Louvre Abu Dhabi (In-Person Conversation) | L’ÉCOLE School of Jewelry Arts. 

For more information please visit: L’ÉCOLE Middle East website or Louvre Abu Dhabi website