Purchase of the Empress Eugénie's Great Diamond Cluster
In 1855, Kramer, Empress Eugenie's jeweler, made a large belt for the Empress, studded with 4,485 diamonds. That same year, the magnificant piece was shown at the Exposition Universelle in Paris. It's existence, however, was brief. By 1864, the belt had been dismantled, but the central piece was preserved. It consisted of a large, delicated arranged cluster, from which hang two tassels and five pendants.
The Great Cluster of the Empress Eugénie is not only of primary historical interest, it is also a masterpiece of the jeweler's art. It is a perfect illustration of the Second Empire style, particularly the passion for passementerie. This extraordinary piece will find a perfect home in the Louvre.
