The Art of David Webb: Jewelry and Culture

The Art of David Webb showcases the designer's dedication to artistry over seven decades, featuring jewelry as art in over 120 images, inspired by various artistic and cultural periods. The book includes pieces such as the Mondrian Bracelet and a gemstone-rich dragon brooch, and is accompanied by work by photographers, painters, sculptors, architects, couturiers, and photographers.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 05 September 2023
Publisher: Rizzoli International Publications

The Art of David Webb is a captivating celebration of the designer's unwavering dedication to artistry spanning over seven decades. When David Webb arrived in New York at the tender age of 17, he was immediately captivated by the city's museums, architecture, and fashion. By the time he established his eponymous shop in 1948, New York had firmly established itself as his muse. In his sole published article, "Why Not Hang Gems?" from 1963, Webb boldly asserted that jewelry deserved to be regarded as art and collected by museums. This unwavering conviction serves as the driving force behind The Art of David Webb. Within its pages, readers are treated to a mesmerizing display of jewelry showcased as art in more than 120 specially commissioned images. Each image, meticulously captured for this book, speaks to the diverse artistic and cultural periods that have inspired David Webb and the company he founded.

Among the remarkable examples featured are Webb's enameled and diamond Mondrian Bracelet, a tribute to Piet Mondrian's iconic Broadway Boogie Woogie and Yves Saint Laurent's groundbreaking 1960s sheath dress with its iconic color blocking. The book also showcases a gemstone-rich dragon brooch inspired by Scythian animal pommels, as well as a scored rock crystal and diamond bracelet that pays homage to art deco classics. Throughout, the work of photographers, painters, sculptors, architects, couturiers, and photographers forms a visually captivating dialogue with the sumptuous David Webb jewelry. The imaginative pairings, in-depth descriptive captions, and elegantly designed publication provide resounding proof that jewelry is both art and culture.

The Art of David Webb is a testament to the designer's profound influence and his unwavering commitment to pushing the boundaries of what jewelry can be. It serves as a captivating visual journey, showcasing the beauty and artistry that have defined David Webb's illustrious career. Whether you are a jewelry aficionado or an art enthusiast, this book is a must-have for anyone seeking to appreciate the extraordinary fusion of design and craftsmanship.

Weight: 2342g
Dimension: 264 x 326 x 36 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780847873333