Cool Hunting

While it might seem untimely to mount an exhibition that celebrates opulence, there's no denying the appeal of Solange Azagury-Partridge's sensual jewelry. For "Unwearable Jewels," her debut U.S. solo show at Sebastian + Barquet, the designer translated her signature gestures into decorative objects for the home, including wall plaques, rugs, and furniture all detailed with precious and semi-precious stones.

Having worked in jewelry design for well over a decade (her namesake boutique in London opened in 1995), Azagury-Partridge began her foray into decorative objects through a 2005 collaboration with Swarovski. Her Pergola chandelier, a cylinder covered in bejeweled grape clusters is a shimmering example of her literal approach in employing ornamental motifs.

Such motifs can again be found in Unwearable Jewels. Her Cosmic jewelry collection (examples after the jump) echoes in the wall plaques "Sun" and "Flaming Heart" (top), which will sell for $80,000 a piece. Bold colors and playful geometry, reminiscent of Verner Panton's early work, are prominent features in the rugs. Round Rainbow (above), will sell for $15,000. The Constellation Coffee Table (below), which will be produced in a limited edition of four and is being offered at $63,000, consists of an inlaid gemstone surface resting on brass base, and features clawed feet grasping bronze spheres. A predatory bird snatching precious jewels from an unwitting traveler? Perhaps these works are timely after all.

Unwearable Jewels
Opening reception: 30 October 2008, 6-8pm
31 October-20 December 2008
Sebastian + Barquet
544 West 24th Street
New York, NY 10011 map
tel +1 212 691 3215