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PHILLIPS ANNOUNCES THE ART OF WONDER
An Exhibition in Milan of Dior Haute Joaillerie Jewels by Victoire de Castellane, Presented in Milan as Phillips Strengthens its Jewellery Presence in Italy with the Appointment of Gaia Maffioli
Alongside highlights from Phillips’ London Auctions of Modern & Contemporary Art
MILAN – 8 SEPTEMBER 2026 – Phillips is honoured to announce The Art of Wonder, an extraordinary presentation of Dior Haute Joaillerie jewels from a private Italian collection, designed by Victoire de Castellane. The exhibition marks an important moment for Phillips’ Jewellery in Italy, following the appointment of Gaia Maffioli as Jewellery Specialist, based in Milan. The Art of Wonder will open to the public by appointment from 22 to 24 September, coinciding with Milan Fashion Week. The jewels will be presented in dialogue with highlights from Phillips’ October sales of Modern & Contemporary Art in London.
Victoire de Castellane joined Dior in 1999 to establish its High Jewellery department, introducing a distinctive approach defined by bold colour, imaginative forms and unexpected combinations of gemstones. Moving beyond traditional conventions, her designs embraced motifs from nature and the imagination – from flowers and butterflies to insects and marine life – alongside stones such as citrine, tourmaline and beryl. The Art of Wonder brings together 21 jewels spanning two decades of this creative output, including one-of-a-kind creations.
Gaia Maffioli, Specialist, Jewellery, said, “This extraordinary collection, made possible through the special permission of its owner, reflects an exceptional passion for Victoire de Castellane’s work. Lovingly assembled and enriched over many years, it is truly unique, bringing together 21 jewels that span two decades of creativity, research and experimentation. The collection offers a remarkable overview of recurring themes in Castellane’s work, from vibrant colour and floral motifs to incredible statement pieces. It is a privilege to present such a distinctive group in Milan and to showcase the work of a designer who has redefined high jewellery, bringing colour and imaginative forms to centre stage.”
The jewels will be presented in dialogue with highlights from Phillips’ October sales of Modern & Contemporary Art in London, creating a conversation between two forms of collecting united by an appreciation for invention, rarity and exceptional craftsmanship. The presentation reflects Phillips’ longstanding commitment to bringing together different disciplines and perspectives, while highlighting the natural affinities between jewellery and contemporary art.
Margherita Solaini, Regional Director, Italy, Senior Specialist, Modern & Contemporary Art, said, “Jewellery has long been an important part of Phillips’ international offering, and we are delighted to welcome Gaia Maffioli to our global Jewellery team in Milan. With 15 years of experience in the industry, Gaia brings exceptional expertise and a deep understanding of the Italian jewellery landscape. We are particularly pleased to introduce her presence in Milan with such a remarkable exhibition, bringing together an exceptional private collection of Dior Haute Joaillerie jewels by Victoire de Castellane. The presentation also creates a compelling dialogue with our Modern & Contemporary Art offering in London, reflecting the breadth of collecting interests that Phillips seeks to bring together.”
Exhibition viewing: 22–24 September 2026, by appointment only Location: Via Lanzone, 2, Milano 20123
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