Cartier's Islamic Inspirations at Louvre Abu Dhabi

Louvre Abu Dhabi presents 'Cartier, Islamic Inspiration and Modern Design,' an exhibition tracing how Islamic art motifs influenced the luxury jeweler's early 20th-century creations. Curated by Judith Hénon-Raynaud (Musée du Louvre) and Évelyne Possémé (Musée des Arts Décoratifs), the show results from five years of archival research. It juxtaposes Cartier pieces—necklaces, brooches, tiaras—with Islamic artifacts from across the Arab world, Iran, India, and North Africa, spanning the 7th to 19th centuries. The exhibition highlights the roles of Louis Cartier, his brother Jacques, and later creative director Jeanne Toussaint (from 1933) in incorporating Islamic geometry, colors, and materials. Scenography by Diller Scofidio + Renfro features analytical videos and shadow projections. The show runs until March 24, 2024, and is organized with support from Cartier, Musée du Louvre, and France Museums.