Franz Hemmerle

Monika Kopplin highlights the extraordinary variety of decorative techniques as well as the many stylistic features. The history and art history of Russia are reflected in the small format of the lacquer miniatures, painting a lively picture of the various eras. A comprehensive index of seals expands the catalogue into a reference book. Russian lacquer art can be traced back to Peter the Great, who had come to know this flourishing art and craft during his study trips in Western Europe. The first important work in this genre in the tsar’s empire was completed in 1722 in the form of the Lacquer Study in his palace of Monplaisir. A second significant event followed when the Korobov workshop, which was modelled on the Braunschweig-based Stobwasser workshop, was established in 1793 near Moscow. It is better known by the name of a later owner, Lukutin. A technical and artistic alignment with the German model was followed by an increasingly independent Russian development from the 1820s onwards. At first this found expression in specific decorative techniques, and later also in specifically Russian motifs.

They are one of the highlights of the world of jewellery. From the rectangular to the round and rounded: Cufflinks are timeless eye catchers. Those who adorn their shirt sleeves with such works of art can be sure to attract attention. This knowledgeable publication introduces readers to the world of cufflinks, tracing their story and showing rare designs. Cufflinks are among the few pieces of jewellery worn by men and, like wristwatches, are an essential part of men’s fashion. The first cufflinks appeared as early as the seventeenth century, but they did not come into common usage until the late eighteenth century as their development was closely connected to that of men’s shirts. Nowadays cufflinks are little artworks that allow men to express their own personality in an understated way. Their design and the materials from which they are made can speak volumes about the wearer’s preferences, hobbies and profession. Designers are fascinated by the challenge as cufflinks provide only very little space for their design, and the four buttons that make up a pair have to be well coordinated. The most exquisite examples are nowadays often to be found in drawers and display cases belonging to collectors and museums. This publication presents more than 200 of these treasures.