Kazumi Arikawa, the enigmatic Japanese founder and president of the Albion Art gallery, has long been a key figure in the world of antique jewelry, yet remains relatively unknown outside of it. Known as "the man with the most valuable jewelry collection you never knew existed," Arikawa is now sharing his remarkable treasures with the world in his latest book, Divine Jewels: The Pursuit of Beauty.
This captivating volume offers a rare glimpse into Arikawa's collection, featuring 250 masterpieces that span millennia, from the Hellenistic period to the 1940s. Curated by the esteemed jewelry historian Diana Scarisbrick, this book combines historical insights, breathtaking photography by Nils Herrmann, and Arikawa’s personal narratives to create a visual and intellectual feast for jewelry lovers and historians alike.
Arikawa, who once spent time as a Buddhist monk, reflects on his 40-year journey of collecting jewelry, describing it as both a pilgrimage and an odyssey. The jewels he has gathered over decades represent more than just fine craftsmanship; they symbolize the shifting tastes, styles, and cultural aesthetics of generations. The collection features everything from medieval rings to Belle Époque tiaras, including iconic works by Van Cleef & Arpels, Cartier, and Fabergé.
The book is divided into ten chapters, each dedicated to a theme that explores the evolution of jewelry, from ancient gem carvings to contemporary animal-inspired designs. These pieces are captured in stunning full-page images, complemented by detailed histories that reveal the fascinating stories behind each jewel.
For those interested in understanding the history and artistry of jewelry, Divine Jewels is a must-read. It’s not just a collection of photographs but a tribute to jewelry as an art form, making it an invaluable source of inspiration for designers and collectors alike.