Cartier has long been fascinated with the quotidian, creating functional items – fragrance bottles, powder compacts, inkwells, stationery – since the late 19th century. In keeping with Cartier design codes, they put an ornamental spin on the purely functional, making for chic objets in their own right.
‘Since 1880, Cartier has been interested in everyday objects,’ says Pierre Rainero, director of Image, Style and Heritage at Cartier International. ‘In 1925, with the creation of the S for Silver department, entrusted to Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier developed more accessible accessories and objects. These practical, playful, joyful and elegant items were perfectly in tune with the celebratory spirit and chic portability of the Café Society in the 1930s. The materials used to create these precious wood, porcelain or enamel objects met the criteria of elegance and durability, with today’s collections continuing the Cartier tradition,’ he adds.
In the post-war period of the 1920s, these more accessible items, including a gold pocket corkscrew and a silver cocktail shaker with hidden cocktail recipes, were enhanced with precious metals and sculpted silhouettes.
It is a philosophy reflected in this new collection composed of useful everyday items given a precious twist. A stamp, a tea box, stationery and Christmas decorations incorporate the tradition of skilled artistry which lays at the heart of both the jewellery and homeware, putting an elegant spin on the everyday.
INFORMATION
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