THE BROOCH, FROM FUNCTION TO FANTASY AT WARTSKI, LONDON

Image: Ice lolly brooch by Bulgari, c. 1970

A major show is planned in October showcasing the glory of the brooch, from the Bronze Age to Today. It includes breathtaking examples by Fabergé, Cartier, Boucheron and cutting-edge contemporary jewellers including Hemmerle, and Mumbai-based Bhagat. Over 250 jewels from across the globe will be on display, many of which have never been exhibited before.

Ranging in size from 1 to 32cm, they illuminate historical figures and causes, for example Christabel Pankhurst’s Suffragette brooch and a ‘Holloway Prison brooch’, presented to Anna Lewis who was incarcerated for her actions. Other notable inclusions are a laurel spray brooch of rubies and diamonds belonging to the Empress Josephine, a Surrealist brooch designed by Salvador Dali with his drawing for the jewel and a James Bond ‘M’ brooch in diamonds, given by Barbara Broccoli to Dame Judi Dench.

Entry is free to the exhibition, from 1^st to 12^th October 2025; however, £10 colour catalogues are on sale in aid of the King’s Trust. Visit the website  From Function to Fantasy: The Brooch – Wartski for further information.