Until 22nd July, 2016
Goldsmiths' Hall

The Goldsmiths’ Company is delighted to present the first major solo exhibition of work by unique artist jeweller Charlotte de Syllas.

Sculpted Gemstones brings together 73 exquisite art jewellery pieces created between the 1960s and the present day. The display provides insight into this renowned studio-based jeweller’s creative imagination and illustrious career spanning over 50 years.

One of the country’s leading makers, Charlotte’s palette is gemstones; their shape and colour. Jade, opal, lapis lazuli, aquamarine and tourmaline are but some of the alluring stones that feature in her sculpted designs. Her distinctive mastery in carving reveals the ethereal beauty of the gemstones and hardstones. As such, Charlotte is as much a sculptor as she is a jeweller.

Her works come to life in the form of birds with wings widespread, flowers in bloom, human heads in a mode of quiet contemplation, and sea creatures. Silver, platinum and gold serve as supporting materials, merging with the gemstones to create sublime contrasts reflecting the materials’ distinctive characteristics. Deceptively simple, the jewels are complex in their symbolic message and reveal the dedicated integrity of their creator.

Her work can be found in important public collections such as the V&A, London; the Crafts Council, London; and the Swiss National Museum, Zurich. Charlotte’s relationship with the Goldsmiths’ Company has continued since the 1960s, when the Company purchased her student work. It also commissioned her in 2000 and 2014 to create major work in jade.

A catalogue accompanies the exhibition and can be purchased at Goldsmiths’ Hall.

http://www.thegoldsmiths.co.uk/company/today/events/2016/charlotte-de-syllas-exhibition/