Q&A: Wartski

15 June 2024

For the second iteration of The Treasure House Fair, we’re delighted to welcome Wartski back to our pavilion at Royal Hospital Chelsea. 
Established in 1865, the renowned antiques business specialises in Russian works of art, particularly those by Carl Fabergé, as well as fine jewellery and objets d’art. Over the past century and a half, Wartski has established itself as one of the UK’s foremost jewellery specialists – even creating HRH Princess Catherine’s wedding ring for her marriage to HRH Prince William in 2011.

Why have you chosen to participate in The Treasure House Fair this year?
The Treasure House summer fair is ideally positioned at the height of the London art season. Collectors from around the world gather in the city. London at this time is at its liveliest, basking in the June sunshine, with a calendar full of events across the city. 

What are you most looking forward to exhibiting during the event?
We have recently acquired some astounding pieces, including a monumental gold armlet which was given by the painter Sir Lawrence Alma Tadema to his wife, Lady Laura Theresa. She wore it when she modelled for some of his greatest masterpieces. It represents the intersection of fine art and jewellery, where the most magnificent treasures are created. 

How did you first learn about THF and what makes it stand out from other fairs?
We have been exhibiting at the Treasure House Fair since it first opened in 2023. It follows in a long and important tradition of summer art fairs which bring so much to the city and have become a fixture of the summer calendar. A space for art and antique dealers across the world to exhibit their finest pieces in London. 

What advice would you give to people visiting the fair for the first time?
Not to rush your visit. Make sure you leave plenty of time to really savour the fair and see all the exhibits. If you are traveling from outside London, leave a few days to enjoy all the wonderful things the city has to offer at that time of year. 

What are a few highlight works your business is bringing to the fair?
Visitors can expect a wonderful collection of Carl Fabergé, including two beautiful, enameled egg pendants which were gifts from the Dowager Empress Maria Feodorovna. A dazzling diamond necklace by Cartier and a solid gold evening bag in the form of a pig by Parisian firm Lacloche Freres. Truly something for everyone.