Study Sessions: Rubies and Rogues - The Smoking Room Jewels

Prepare to be intrigued by the stories of these jewels – once thought to be Renaissance masterpieces, new research conducted by the leader of this session, Dr Phillippa Plock, has revealed the complex nature of these wonders of the goldsmith’s art.

Considering examples collected by male and female family members, including the ‘brilliant’ Betty de Rothschild, this study session will introduce you to the motivations as well as the mistakes behind acquiring the treasures of the past.

Tales of the rogues who forged these jewels in the nineteenth century gives a fresh context to the examination of these rubies, which will be enabled by the chance to see the jewels out of their cases.