Simply Abu Dhabi Magazine XVI

T esoros Del Imperio translates as ‘Treasures of the Empire’ – a clever reference to both the riches of the Golden Age of Spain and the priceless masterpieces of Madrid’s Prado Museum, the inspiration behind this dazzling collection from Carrera y Carrera. Considered one of the most prestigious jewellers in the world, this iconic brand is characterised by a unique style and precise designs where the combination of a matte-shine effect on gold, work in volumes, and meticulous craftsmanship make for exceptional jewellery pieces where gold and precious stones come to life. There is a compelling history behind this classically refined collection. During the 16th and 17th centuries, Spain experienced an economic and cultural boom that achieved great international prestige. Known as the Golden Age, this era is enshrined as one of the brightest and most fruitful periods of art in Spain. It was a tribute to the grandeur of a rising empire that for over a century became the centre of the art world. At this time, countless treasures of silver, gold, and precious stones were brought from America, thus beginning the age of Spanish jewellery expertise and creating a revolution in the techniques employed in this art form. The royals showed a particular predilection for the jewels with which they were frequently painted in portraits. Through them, and those of high rank, abundant amounts of jewels were commissioned from the most prominent craftsmen of the day. Advances in craftsmanship allowed for carving harder precious stones and sculpting gold in a different and much more precise fashion. As such, this was a period of vital importance for the development of the art of jewellery. Carrera y Carrera was founded upon this history of creating art in jewellery, using new techniques in the treatment of gold, and thus an innovative, original, and rather daring brand was born. The jeweller became a champion for the growing luxury industry in the late 19th century, and inMadrid, the José Esteban Carrera workshop acquired fame through gem cutting, which to this day continues in its traditional form of hand-made production. For Carrera y Carrera, the creation of a jewel was not only a source of inspiration, but also encompassed an entire history and expertise – technological, gemological, and above all, artistic knowledge. As such, its creations become small works of art. The glorious past of the Spanish Empire and jewellery art is reborn in this new collection, inspired by the treasures and artists of the Spanish Empire. In four distinctive lines, luxury, art, and grace are captured in pieces of extreme beauty. CarrerayCarrera–TesorosDel Imperio 1 3 4 S I M P LY A B U DH A B I