Tiffany Flora & Fauna
The motto "Mother Nature is the best designer" has resounded through the workshops of the world-famous jewellers Tiffany and Co. since its inception in 1837. Head designer during the early years was Edward C. Moore who was profoundly influenced by the Victorian fascination with flora and fauna, in particular botanical art and the oriental influence on the subject. The result is a fascinating and valuable collection of artworks from the late 1800s held in the Tiffany and Co archives, providing the backbone of inspiration for the company. Its translation into precious metal and gemwork is renowned by designers such as Charles Lewis Tiffany himself, Paulding Farnham, Jean Schlumberger, Jean Loring and Paloma Picasso, collected by the rich and famous across the globe. This fabulous two-volume set by the current Design Director, John Loring, is a literally brilliant history of these bejewelled works of art: beetles, dragonflies, birds; orchids, roses, fruits and even cacti. Beautifully photographed and displayed alongside the influential, archival material, the jewellery is superbly shown as befits the world's most decorative and innovative jewellers. Presented as a slip-cased set, this is the perfect gift for nature lovers, jewellery lovers or anyone who can appreciate the beauty and perfection of superb workmanship. - Lucy Watson