The Age of Grandeur

The Age of Grandeur builds upon the best-selling Understanding Jewellery by Daniela Mascetti and David Bennett, which is considered to be one of the most important and frequently referenced books on jewellery ever produced. This new edition, revised and expanded, sees the authors focus solely on the 19th century, bringing with it over 250 new colour photographs of jewellery from this most celebrated era.

Taking the reader through the history of jewellery over the decades, we learn how and why particular styles came about and then changed. From Napoleonic classicism and Victorian sentimental and memorial jewellery, through the Romantic era and its penchant for naturalism, the Gothic style and recreation of the Renaissance, and finally, the unique designs of the Art Nouveau, Art Deco, and Arts and Crafts periods, this comprehensive study enlightens and fascinates.

With stunning photographs accompanying us on our journey through the decades, creating a rich visual history that brings the text to life, this book remains the essential bible on 19th-century jewellery.

Authors: David Bennett is the Worldwide Chairman of Sotheby's International Jewellery Division and the Chairman of Sotheby's Switzerland. He has sold four out of the five most expensive jewels in auction history. Having worked as an auctioneer at the firm since 1978, Bennett is renowned internationally as an authority on jewellery. He played a key role in numerous illustrious sales, such as the 'Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor' (1987), a tiara from the Collection of Princess Katharina Henckel von Donnersmarck (2011), and Henry IV of France's Beau Sancy (2012).

Daniela Mascetti is Sotheby's Chairman of Jewellery in Europe. She joined Sotheby's in 1980, opening the firm's Milan-based department. She is one of Sotheby's most experienced scholars in the history of jewellery and has collaborated extensively in the sales of historic collections. Her research has assisted with several notable auctions, from The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor to the collections of Elton John and Gina Lollobrigida.

Selling Points:

• Over 250 stunning new colour photographs with detailed captions
• Revised and expanded edition of the jewellery world's bible on 19th century adornment
• A comprehensive history of jewellery, from Napoleonic classicism and Gothic and Renaissance, through to the Arts and Crafts of the late 19th-century

250 colour illustrations