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The National Gallery, one of Britain’s most treasured institutions, is celebrating its bicentenary with a collaboration as timeless as the masterpieces it houses. Partnering with the renowned British jeweler Boodles, the gallery marks its 200th year with a breathtaking 34-piece high jewelry collection inspired by iconic works of art. Recently, we attended an exclusive event hosted by Boodles at the National Gallery, where we experienced the elegance and artistry behind this extraordinary collection.
A Unique Blend of Art and Jewelry
The National Gallery has long been a beacon of inspiration, drawing creatives from all walks of life. To honor this legacy, Boodles crafted four unique chapters within their collection: Play of Light, Brushstrokes, Perspective, and Motherhood. Each chapter translates elements of famous paintings into wearable works of art, showcasing the jeweler’s impeccable craftsmanship and creative vision.
Rebecca Hawkins, Boodles’ director of design, immersed herself in the gallery’s 2,300-strong collection during the design process, finding inspiration in works spanning centuries. From the impressionistic play of light in Monet’s Water Lilies to the mathematical precision of Canaletto’s Venetian views, each piece in the collection carries the soul of its artistic counterpart.
As part of Boodles celebration of bicentenary, the exclusive black tie dinner was held in the gallery’s where the spotlight was on both the jeweler’s National Gallery Collection and one of Britain’s most iconic paintings, Constable’s The Hay Wain. As part of the evening we gained exclusive access to the exhibit. The Discover Constable & The Hay Wain housed in The Sunley Room which is kindly sponsored by Boodles.
The evening began with champagne and a private viewing of Boodles’ dazzling new creations, each piece inspired by masterpieces housed in the gallery. As we dined, we were surrounded by some of the most stunning and iconic pieces of art. The setting of the dinner was the Julia and Hans Rausing Room at the National Gallery offers an exquisite setting for our private dinner.
This iconic space, home to some of the world’s most mesmerising Baroque masterpieces, the dinner had the feel of entering an Italian palazzo, where gilded frames and dramatic compositions by Caravaggio and his contemporaries surround you. Guests were seated at an elegantly adorned table beneath the watchful eyes of saints, martyrs, and mythological figures brought to life on the walls.
As we dined, the curated menu complemented the room’s grandeur. The intimacy of the setting, combined with the rich history and captivating art, made this dinner a truly immersive experience.
After dinner we had an intimate introduction to The Hay Wain, one of the National Gallery’s most beloved works. The exhibition showcased fascinating insights into the painting’s creation, including the preparatory sketches Constable made over 20 years before completing the final piece in his London studio.
Through a curated journey of related works, including George Morland’s stormy rural scenes, William Blake’s mystic landscapes, and William Mulready’s evocative Farrier Shop, we explored the themes that informed Constable’s radical yet poetic depiction of the English countryside. The conversation delved into the painting’s evolving legacy—how its once-controversial realism is now viewed as a quintessential symbol of pastoral England, even as it continues to inspire reinterpretations in the context of climate change.
This extraordinary dinner was a rare convergence of art, history, and craftsmanship, showcasing not only the depth of British creativity but also Boodles’ ability to transform cultural treasures into wearable masterpieces.
Exploring the Collection-how Boodles designer was inspired
Play of Light
This chapter draws from the impressionist era, emphasizing the dynamic interaction of light and color. For example:
- Renoir’s Moulin Huet Bay inspired a suite featuring blue sapphires, green tsavorites, pink sapphires, and diamonds, echoing the palette of Guernsey’s coastline.
- Monet’s Water Lilies informed a 24-carat morganite ring with yellow sapphire shoulders, capturing the serene beauty of the famous pond.
- The dramatic hues of Water Lilies, Setting Sun inspired a statement collar necklace set with peridot, mandarin garnet, and pink tourmaline.
Brushstrokes
This chapter celebrates the texture and movement in works by Cézanne and Van Gogh.
- A zig-zag bracelet in diamonds and aquamarines mirrors the layered brushstrokes of Cézanne’s Avenue at Chantilly.
- Van Gogh’s Sunflowers influenced bold, textural pieces with sunny yellow gemstones and intricate detailing.
Perspective
Canaletto’s precise Venetian landscapes inspired jewelry designs that incorporate depth and dimension.
- A diamond collar necklace mimics the diminishing arches seen in his works, curving elegantly around the neck with architectural precision.
Motherhood
This chapter reinterprets the triangular composition often seen in depictions of the Madonna and Child.
- Pendants, rings, and bracelets feature pear-shaped and oval stones, echoing the figures of mother and child. Cleverly, these shapes also form a capital “B,” paying homage to the Boodles brand.
A Jewel-Lover’s Dream
Beyond showcasing their artistic heritage, Boodles’ collaboration with the National Gallery brings the joy of jewelry and art together in an unprecedented way. The Morning Walk bracelet or the Water Lilies-inspired collar are not just accessories—they are wearable stories of light, texture, and history.
Boodles’ National Gallery Collection Gift Guide
1. Renoir-Inspired Earrings
Blue sapphires, green tsavorites, and pink sapphires in playful clusters. Perfect for the art lover in your life.
2. Cézanne Bracelet
A zig-zag diamond and aquamarine bracelet capturing brushstroke textures, ideal for modern minimalists.
3. Perspective Diamond Collar
Architectural arches in white diamonds, a striking choice for special occasions.
4. Monet Morganite Ring
A 24-carat morganite with yellow sapphire accents, an ode to serene beauty.
5. Motherhood Pendant
A pear-shaped and oval diamond pendant symbolizing eternal love and connection.
A Celebration of British Heritage
Founded in 1798, Boodles shares a rich heritage with the National Gallery, making their partnership a natural fit. The jewelry house’s dedication to craftsmanship, storytelling, and timeless elegance shines in every piece of this collection.
Why This Collaboration Matters
The Boodles National Gallery Collection is more than jewelry—it’s a celebration of British art and design. By reimagining masterpieces in precious gemstones and metals, the collection ensures these works of art are not just admired but also cherished in an entirely new form. Whether you’re a lover of fine jewelry, an art enthusiast, or both, this collaboration offers a chance to own a piece of history.
Visit the National Gallery or Boodles’ Bond Street boutique to explore this extraordinary collection. Let art and jewelry inspire your next heirloom.
