Timeless Tiaras: Chaumet from 1804 to the Present (2002)
Chaumet has played a unique role in the history of jewels, especially for jewels for the head. This rich and lavishly illustrated volume uses unpublished photographs and documents from their archives to trace the journey of the design for these splendid pieces. Discover timeless beauty and prestige with Chaumet's exquisite jewels for the head. With rare glimpses into their private archives, this book by Diana Scarisbrick offers readers a glimpse of the brand's rich history and legacy of luxury design. Watch as each jewel unfolds into a unique story - one that can only be told by Chaumet.
Written by Diana Scarisbrick, published by Assouline Press, 238 pages. Hardbound with dust jacket, excellent condition.
The book is a rich volume that traces the history and evolution of tiaras and other head jewelry created by the House of Chaumet. It covers pieces from the diadem offered by Napoleon I to Pope Pius VII, to hundreds of modern hair adornments, reflecting the fashions and decorative arts of different periods. The book draws on unpublished photographs and documents from Chaumet's collection. Assouline Publishing. Hardcover, typically around 240 pages. The book showcases the evolution of ornamental headwear from the 18th century to the present day, featuring illustrations, original drawings, photographs, and archival documents from Chaumet's history. It covers famous pieces, such as the papal tiara commissioned by Napoleon.
Many notable world historical moments have included Chaumet jewelry- Official Jeweler to Napoleon I: Founder Marie-Étienne Nitot was commissioned to create the imperial regalia for Napoleon's coronation in 1804, including his coronation sword set with the Regent diamond, the empress's crown, and a papal tiara for Pope Pius VII. This imperial patronage instantly established Chaumet as a premier jeweler to royalty and aristocracy across Europe. Napoleon commissioned numerous pieces for his wife, Joséphine de Beauharnais, who had a profound influence on the brand's style. Her love for nature and pear-cut gems inspired many of the house's iconic designs, including tiaras and parures (matching jewelry Sets)
Tiaras were particularly in vogue during the Belle Époque and became a Chaumet specialty. The house created thousands of designs, ranging from classic Renaissance-inspired pieces to aigrettes (hair ornaments) featuring elaborate nature motifs like hummingbirds and bats.