Bulgari continues its year of celebrations with an exhibition at the boutique on Paseo de Gracia in collaboration with artist Ignasi Monreal.
This 2023 marks the 75th anniversary of one of the most iconic collections of Bulgari: Serpenti. It has been a fundamental element in the history of the brand being a source of inspiration for designs and creations. It is one of the hallmarks of the Italian firm, and to celebrate its 75th anniversary, the Roman House transforms its boutique in Passeig de Gracia (Barcelona) in an ode to Serpenti, and it does not do it alone. They have the collaboration of artist Ignasi Monreal, who lends a magnificent work that represents the codes of the brand to perfection. The exhibition “Serpenti, 75 years of infinite tales”, available from October 18 to November 30, combines pieces from Bulgari’s historical archive with contemporary High Jewelry creations.
Bulgari boutique in Passeig de Gracia with the exhibition of the 75th anniversary of Serpenti and the work of Ignasi Monreal.
Over the decades, the Serpenti collection has evolved with the spirit of the times but always maintaining its magnetic essence, becoming a sign of determination and strength. His jewels have adorned necks and wrists of great actresses such as Elizabeth Taylor, Sophia Loren or Naomi Watts, and is that Serpenti pieces are a symbol in itself.
The legend of Serpenti
The snake, deeply rooted in the history of mankind, has captured the imagination from East to West over the millennia. In Greek and Roman mythology, it was believed to possess powers of transformation and regeneration through its ability to shed its skin. Its ever-changing nature and eternal spirit have been the leitmotif of the Bulgari snake. Its functional elegance was an immediate success that increased the brand’s international recognition. Since the creations of the early days, Serpenti has ventured on a path of infinite metamorphosis, shedding its skin.
Ignasi Monreal’s work for the exhibition “Serpenti, 75 years of inifinite tales” by Bulgari
75 years of Serpenti in Barcelona
Now, the Bulgari boutique in Passeig de Gracia offers aretrospective exhibition of its fascinating history where pieces from the Heritage Collection, sketches and photographs from that era are combined. This celebration can also be enjoyed at the Museo Nacional Thyssen de Madrid. Heritage by Bulgari consists of more than a thousand pieces created over the decades. This exceptional selection is complemented by more than 80,000 documents, images and sketches.
Bulgari boutique on Passeig de Gracia with the exhibition of the 75th anniversary of Serpenti and the work of Ignasi Monreal
As a continuation of this creative journey, Serpenti’s most recent metamorphosis is also on display. It consists of a Haute Joaillerie set first worn by actress Milena Smint at the Venice Film Festival. Called “Rubellite Gaze Serpenti” the captivating set elegantly captures the essence of the serpent’s enchantment, based on the myth of Cadmus and Harmonia. This narrative leads us to the highlight of this exhibition: the work of Monreal.
Actress Milena Smint wearing Bulgari’s “Rubellite Gaze Serpenti” jewelry set.
“When Bulgari approached me to create an interpretation of Serpenti and its metamorphoses, I immediately started looking for something that was innovative and iconic. These are values that underlie all Bulgari creations. The myth of Cadmus and Harmonia and their transformation into serpents held a great fascination for me. It was perfect to inspire this work in which Harmonia wears the Haute Joaillerie bracelet, becomes the center of attention and transforms into the necklace. In the background you can see Barcelona, seen from my house in my hometown,” says the artist;
Artist Ignasi Monreal painting his work for Bulgari’s “Serpenti, 75 years of inifinite tales” exhibition.
In addition, on October 18 was held at the Mies van Der Rohe Foundation Pavilion, the evening that ended a year of commemorations for the 75th anniversary of Serpenti. Nieves Álvarez, Martina Klein, Miguel Ángel Silvestre or Xavi Hernández were some of the guests who enjoyed a night of live Italian music, cocktails and dancing.
Exhibition: “Serpenti, 75 years of infinite tales” by Bulgari
When? October 18 to November 30
Where? Boutique Bulgari Passeig de Gràcia, 74 Barcelona
