Show of splendor

The exhibition at the Sichuan Museum showcases Cartier's most precious heritage piece including the garland-style tiara of diamonds.[Photo provided to China Daily]

Chinese visitors to the exhibition will be thrilled to see a lacquer vanity case with a scene from the Romance of the West Chamber, a classic Chinese love story, on its cover.

With a flora and fauna theme, the exhibition displays creations inspired by nature. The most splendid example is the Crocodile necklace, which was made as a special order for Mexican actress Maria Felix in the 1970s. The necklace consists of two crocodiles representing the actress' pets. One of the crocodiles is set in 1,023 yellow diamonds and the other 1,060 emeralds.

Throughout history, the house has had many famous clients, one of them being Simpson. Her panther clip brooch that features the animal on a sapphire cabochon became a symbolic piece for Cartier.

Also on display is the Cartier set of rubies and diamonds that includes a necklace, earrings and a bracelet. It was a present to Taylor from her then husband Mike Todd. It is exhibited alongside pictures of the late actress trying it on with the help of Todd.

There is also a section dedicated to "Mystery" clocks, which feature transparent watch faces.

Sichuan Museum has contributed artworks from the same period such as embroideries, jewelries and imperial items to complement the Cartier pieces.

Song Haiyang, jade expert from the Palace Museum, assisted in curating the show.