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otheby’s is pleased to present The Bold Standard: Jewels by Bulgari & Marina B, open for bidding from 13-19 May. Spotlighting the statement-making jewels and innovations in design from these two illustrious makers, this auction explores the uniquely bold looks that each house has to offer. Featuring instantly recognizable pieces from Bulgari’s trademark Monete and Tubogas collections, you’ll find vintage classics that have been pivotal to the brand’s influence and success. Combined with Marina B’s unexpected juxtaposition of materials, gemstones and geometric themes, The Bold Standard invites you to discover a wide range of styles that are sure to delight any aesthetic.
Bulgari debuted its ‘Monete’ collection in the 1960s, contrasting lustrous gold with ancient coins. Each piece is a nod to the contributions made by earlier cultures, most notably Greek and Roman, and their enduring capacity to fuel the imagination. The bezels are engraved with key information such as the type of coin, the identity of the ruler depicted on the obverse side and his dates in power. The nicks, scratches and patination displayed by the coins speak to the passage of hundreds of years, not only connecting the wearer to a distant and powerful history, but also signaling the continuing legacy of Bulgari.
Drawing on one of the most enduring themes in the history of jewelry, Bulgari designed the first snake bracelet-watch during the 1940s. Over the following decades, this popular style developed into many different iterations featuring a variety of forms, gemstones and metals. The Serpenti bracelet-watches offered in this sale exemplify the bold simplicity that embodies this daring design.
Learn the origin story of the Marina B brand, and learn which celebrities count the jewelry designer as their favorite.
