Gold, silver, and
gemstones conjure up visions of wealth, status, and power in
most world cultures. Works of art made from these dazzling
materials not only adorn the body and the home, but they also
proclaim high social and economic position. In some societies,
spectacular objects are even thought to possess magical powers
that protect their owners from evil or that promote health,
fecundity, and wealth. Given their high value, it is not
surprising that such extraordinary works were usually made for
ruling elites or religious institutions.
This exhibition has been drawn entirely from VMFA’s permanent
collections, and celebrates the universal appeal of such
objects. The works exhibited here belong to many different
historical periods and world cultures, but they all show how
precious materials, skilled craftsmanship, and generous
patronage can transform utilitarian objects into extraordinary
artistic statements. In this exhibit you will see opulent
articles of personal adornment such as crowns and jewels.
Alongside these you will find sumptuous boxes and vessels as
well as other outstanding examples of luxury craftsmanship. And
lastly, you will find a range of princely accoutrements from
Mughal India that demonstrates how one particular culture
defined lavishness for the ruling class.
