The Midas Touch

G old – the single metal that has seduced mankind for over six millennia – has compelled explorers, built empires and destroyed dynasties from Rome to the Amazon. It has mesmerized authors and enchanted artists both old and new for its rare material and cultural properties. A marker of wealth but also faith, a mythological but also practical material, gold has endured where other fashions faded. In a world that speaks over 6900 languages, the language of gold remains universal. Taking collectors on a journey through the great civilisations of the world, The Midas Touch pits artists next to artisans, sculptures next to sacred objects, contemporary painting next to centuries old texts on goldsmithing, to present an unrivalled history of nature’s most bewitching creation.