The ‘Portland Miniatures’ exhibition at the Harley Gallery in Welbeck is running currently until 1st October 2018, showcasing works of art which have been hand selected by the jewellery designer JAR aka Joel Arthur Rosenthal. Labelled "the Faberge of our time.", JAR’s legendary and creative jewellery designs are inspirational, and have given him a unique perspective from which to select the finest and most intriguing of the Portland Collection’s treasures.
The Portland Collection, amassed by the Dukes of Portland and their families over the centuries, is one of the most outstanding aristocratic collections of England, encompassing portraiture, Stuart memorabilia, miniatures, items of royal provenance and exquisite jewellery.
Two highlights of the collection are the historically important and rare natural pearl single earring worn by Charles I. This jewel was his statement piece of jewellery, worn in nearly every portrait of him from the age of fifteen onwards. The King would not even be parted from his iconic jewel at his execution and in 1649 the earring was worn as he placed his head on the block for beheading.
Another superb piece from the Collection is the Portland Tiara which was made in 1902 by the renowned jewellery house Cartier. Commissioned by the 6th Duke of Portland for his wife, this impressive diamond set tiara was worn by Lady Portland who was one of the canopy bearers for Queen Alexandra at her coronation and can also be seen in several of de Laslo’s portraits.
For jewels good enough for royalty or aristocracy, visit Berganza to see the very finest pieces of jewellery from the ancient world through to the antique and vintage periods.
