Bvlgari Kaleidos—Italy Meets Japan
A testament to Bvlgari’s unique mastery of color, “Kaleidos: Colors, Cultures and Crafts” marks the largest ever exhibition held by the Roman High Jeweler in Japan, and its first in ten years, proudly supported by the Patrocinio of the Italian Embassy in Japan. It invites visitors to explore a rich kaleidoscope of jewelry, art and craftsmanship through the vibrant language of color.
The exhibition takes its name from the Greek words "kalos" (beautiful) and "eidos" (form), symbolizing a dynamic and ever-changing journey through color, where beauty and creativity blend harmoniously. Nearly 350 chromatic masterpieces – including jewelry creations from the Bvlgari Heritage Collection and prestigious private collections, spanning from the origins to the present day —highlight the deep connection between Italy and Japan, celebrating their rich cultural legacy and shared passion for art and design. Adding further emotional depth, the exhibition also showcases works by three contemporary female artists – Mariko Mori, Lara Favaretto and Akiko Nakayama— who offer their personal reflections on color.
For the exhibition’s scenography, Bvlgari collaborates with architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa—from the Japanese SANAA studio—and the Italian Formafantasma studio, further emphasizing the shared passion for art and design that unites the two countries. Drawing inspiration from the mosaics of the ancient Baths of the Roman emperor Caracalla in Rome, the design concept reflects the Maison’s cultural heritage through curved shapes, refined translucencies and chromatic effects that guide visitors on a sensory journey into the world of color. An artistic path into the essence of Bvlgari’s creativity, seamlessly blending the Maison’s Roman identity with elegant Japanese aesthetics.
The Maison’s aesthetic and Japanese culture come together to showcase their shared values, enhancing the cultural exchange between the two countries. The exhibition opens with two exceptional piece from the Heritage collections, symbolizing a mutual dedication to craftsmanship, attention to detail, and an enduring love of beauty. A precious paperweight, shaped like the façade of a Roman temple and crafted from yellow gold with lapis lazuli, onyx, and diamonds, harmonizes with a circular brooch in yellow gold, set with mother-of-pearl, polychrome enamels, and diamonds.