Cartier, the renowned French luxury watch and jewellery maison, has returned to Shanghai with its latest exhibition, Cartier, the Power of Magic, marking a new chapter in its long-standing relationship with China. The exhibition, running at the Shanghai Museum East until February 17, highlights the brand’s deep connection with Chinese culture and its enduring legacy of artistic innovation.
This exhibition is the second collaboration between Cartier and the Shanghai Museum, one of the world’s most prestigious institutions for ancient Chinese art. It comes 20 years after the brand’s first exhibition in Shanghai, The Art of Cartier, which debuted in 2004. That inaugural event showcased iconic pieces from the Cartier Collection, offering a glimpse into the brand’s rich heritage and artistic evolution.
Cartier, the Power of Magic takes a different approach, focusing on the interaction between Cartier and Eastern cultures, particularly China. The exhibition features over 300 pieces, including jewellery, timepieces, and archival documents from the Cartier Collection, the Cartier archives, the Shanghai Museum, and other global institutions. These items come together to create a vibrant dialogue on the magic and splendor of art and craftsmanship.
The timing of the exhibition is significant. 2024 marks the 60th anniversary of diplomatic relations between France and China, a milestone celebrated as the Franco-Chinese Year of Cultural Tourism. This initiative aims to strengthen cultural and tourism exchanges between the two nations, making Cartier’s exhibition a fitting tribute to this shared history.
More than a showcase of Cartier’s creations, Cartier, the Power of Magic is a celebration of human creativity and cultural exchange. It invites visitors to reflect on the concept of eternity—both in the timelessness of Cartier’s designs and in the enduring connections between Eastern and Western cultures. As Cyrille Vigneron, President and CEO of Cartier, noted, “These timeless designs and creations will survive us. They carry with them the magic of creation, history, and emotion.”
The exhibition also highlights Cartier’s commitment to innovation and heritage. By drawing inspiration from diverse cultures, the brand continues to push the boundaries of design while honoring its storied past. Vigneron likened the exhibition to the Silk Road, describing it as a platform for “an endless exchange of inspiration and ideas.”
Cartier, the Power of Magic is not just an exhibition; it is a testament to the power of art to transcend time and borders. Through its dazzling displays and thoughtful curation, it celebrates the enduring dialogue between cultures and the magic of creativity that unites us all.
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