New Jewellery Collection launches in support of the new BP exhibition: I am Ashurbanipal king of the world, king of Assyria.
The British Museum’s Grenville Room shop is world-famous for its exclusive jewellery collections, featuring incredible works of wearable art created by designers from all over the globe, inspired by the past. Each piece tells a unique and fascinating story, making owning these products extra special. In support of this new exhibition, a group of specially selected designers have created specific works inspired by Assyria and the objects that can be seen in the exhibition itself.
For many years, designer Petra Waszak has interpreted forms and symbols of art history with unique sensitivity in fashion accessories. With much subtlety she combines different styles and techniques and creates such a special voltage. This Assyrian collection, exclusive to the British Museum, is no exception. The range features exquisitely designed pieces crafted from precious stones and materials including carnelian, antique green glass and 24ct gold-plated brass, creating unique individual works of art to wear. Pieces range from £45.00 to £185.00.
These stunning one-off necklaces have been designed by Hajer Ghani, the daughter of the late Mohammed Ghani Hikmat, an Iraqi sculptor and artist credited with creating some of Baghdad’s highest-profile sculptures and monuments. Hajer’s mother also is a renowned archaeologist who worked at the Iraqi museum in Baghdad for over 25 years. Hajer is now reviving the history of her late father through her collection, which focuses on using art in her handmade jewellery.
Assyrian Necklaces and Earrings by Sima Vazyri (exclusive to the British Museum):
Sima is an award-winning Iranian jewellery designer based in London. All pieces have been designed especially for this exhibition and are handmade using pold plated vermeil on silver and semi-precious stones. Prices left to right: £350.00 and £165.00.
Lion Head’s Bracelet – exclusive to the British Museum – £160.00.
Bracelets with lion’s head terminals occur widely in the ancient world as a longstanding symbol of power. The intricate design of this torc bracelet was inspired by many versions from Eastern Mediterranean civilisations. This bracelet has the approximately 7cm diameter and is made of 24ct matte gold-plated brass.
Rouaida Artisan Collection Rouaida designed jewellery in Lebanon for many years before establishing a workshop in rural Yorkshire in 2017. Her unique designs draw heavily upon the vibrant culture, natural beauty and rich history of her home country where she grew up close to the ancient city of Byblos with its ancient port and bustling souks. Lebanon is a land of contrast, where celebrated antiquity mingles with modern living. Rouaida’s jewellery brings together traditional artisan technique with contemporary design using sterling silver, 18ct gold, semi-precious stones, diamonds and pearls. Every piece is unique and lovingly crafted by hand. Prices left to right: £300.00 and £199.00
Arabesque necklace and earrings – £350.00 and £250.00
Agate necklace with gold-plated clover pendant with arabesque designs by Nadia Dajani from Jordan. Nadia grew up in Lagos, Nigeria and did her schooling in London, UK. A keen interest in art and design led her to study architecture at the Bartlett School of Architecture, University College London. Having participated in several architectural projects since leaving college, most notably the Jordanian Pavilion at Expo 2000 in Hanover, Nadia’s passion for jewellery making and design led her architectural interests to take a back seat, as she set the stage for designing with silver and natural gemstones to create a distinctive style influenced by Jordanian and Arab culture and tradition.