Led by Matthieu Dumont, director of SKEMA China, the students explored the realms of jewellery artistry, gaining insights into the rich history and contemporary significance of this intricate craft.
An immersive experience
Entering the exhibition hall, the students were transported into the captivating world of Yves Gastou through the exhibition titled "Men's Rings, Yves Gastou Collection". This extraordinary showcase, curated around men's rings, offered a unique perspective on jewellery art, showcasing the unparalleled collection of the late French connoisseur Yves Gastou. Over 40 years, Gastou meticulously assembled a remarkable array of men's rings, underscoring the groundbreaking significance of this often-overlooked facet of jewellery.
The exhibition provided a glimpse into his passionate pursuit of exquisite items. Through guided tours and immersive experiences, such as viewing interview videos and exploring thematic rooms, SKEMA students delved deeper into Gastou's legendary collecting journey, and the diverse narratives woven into each piece.
Educational opportunity
Moreover, the visit enabled the students to learn about the origins, stories, and developments in the field of jewellery arts. Guided by L'ÉCOLE's lecturers, the students gained insights into gemmology, exploring the composition, texture, types, and origins of gemstones.
Reflecting on the experience, Xiangwei Li, a student of the MSc Luxury and Fashion Management programme, said: “Mr. Yves Gastou's collection enabled me to appreciate the thematic diversity that men's rings can present in the Western world."
About L'ÉCOLE, School of Jewelry Arts China
Established in 2012 with the support of Van Cleef & Arpels, L'ÉCOLE aims to democratise access to the world of jewellery, offering a rich programme of courses, talks, exhibitions, and publications. Expanding its presence in Asia, L'ÉCOLE inaugurated its third permanent school in Shanghai in fall 2023, in the Twin Villas on the Middle Huaihai Road, welcoming jewellery enthusiasts to explore the fascinating realms of jewellery arts.
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