Alhambra Glamour

French jeweller Van Cleef & Arpels, renowned for its exquisite craftsmanship and timeless elegance, offers a selection of rare and collectible bracelets that epitomise luxury. Each piece is a testament to the maison’s rich heritage and commitment to artistry. Crafted from the finest materials, including gold, platinum and precious gemstones, their intricate designs are often inspired by nature – from flowers and butterflies to stars. The iconic Alhambra bracelet, for instance, festooned with delicate four-leaf-clover motifs in mother-of-pearl, is particularly sought-after, and symbolises good luck and fortune.

These jewels not only serve as stunning fashion statements but also as investment items, appreciating in value over time due to their limited availability and exceptional quality. The brand’s unique savoir-faire, such as the patented ‘Mystery Set’ method of embedding gems in gleaming metal without the latter being visible, ensures that each bracelet is not only beautiful but also a marvel of artisanal technique. Collectors and enthusiasts alike cherish these rare pieces for their ability to blend artistry with functionality.

Pinner Prize

Widely acclaimed as the most expensive antique sold at auction, the Pinner Qing Dynasty vase is a remarkable artefact from China’s imperial history, exemplifying the artistic mastery of the Qing Dynasty (1644-1912). Thought to date from the Qianlong period (1736-1795), the 16-inch-high yellow-and-blue vessel fronted by goldfish motifs had been displayed for years on a mantelpiece in Pinner, a suburb of London, England, by a family who had no idea of its worth. Discovered by auctioneers during a routine house clearance, it fetched a record-smashing sum of £43 million (HK$444 million) in 2010.

Often characterised by intricate designs, vibrant colours and detailed craftsmanship, fine porcelain Qing vases are highly prized by collectors and connoisseurs alike. They typically feature elaborate decorations that often depict scenes from nature, such as flowers, birds and mythical creatures. These elements reflect the aesthetic principles of the time, which emphasised harmony and balance with nature. The use of underglaze blue and overglaze polychrome is prominent, showcasing the skilful artistry of the period potters.

Mumbai Magnificence

Reliance Industries Chairman Mukesh Ambani’s residence, Antilia, is an architectural spectacle. Located on Altamount Road in Mumbai, India, this 27-storey skyscraper completed in 2010 stands as one of the most luxurious private homes in the world. Befitting Asia’s richest man, it has a reported value of more than US$4 billion (HK$31 billion). Designed by Chicago firm Perkins and Will, the building spans 400,000 square feet and features a unique combination of modern and traditional Indian design elements.

Antilia’s grandeur and architectural innovation have captivated visitors and locals alike, establishing it as a remarkable landmark in Mumbai. The home boasts an array of extravagant amenities, including a garage capable of accommodating some 168 cars, a health spa, meditation rooms, a ballroom, and even a snow room that generates artificial snow. There are also three helipads, swimming pools and lush gardens spread across various levels, offering breathtaking views of the city skyline.

Sustainable design practices have been implemented, including rainwater harvesting and energy-efficient systems.

Card Sharp

Exemplifying Paul Cézanne’s innovative approach to form, colour and composition, The Card Players series of five oil paintings completed between 1890 and 1895 marks a significant transition from traditional representation to modern art. The works depict farmhands in Provence – some from the French artist’s family estate – engrossed in a game of cards, set against a muted backdrop that emphasises the figures’ concentration and the simplicity of their surroundings.

Cézanne’s use of geometric shapes and vibrant, yet subdued colours conveys a sense of depth and structure, drawing the eye to the interactions between the players. The stillness of the scene creates a contemplative atmosphere, inviting viewers to ponder the relationships and dynamics at play. Each version of The Card Players features distinct arrangements and colour palettes, showcasing the artist’s ability to reinterpret a common subject matter repeatedly while infusing it with his unique style.

The series has garnered significant attention, making it one of Cézanne’s most celebrated works. Its influence extends beyond painting and has impacted future movements.