Catherine the Great: The World's Greatest Collector
Andrew Prince to give talk hosted by The Arts Society Chiswick
Catherine the Great's Crown
June 30, 2025
The Arts Society Chiswick’s July talk is to be on the subject, “Catherine the Great: The World’s Greatest Collector".
The event sees the return of renowned jewellery historian and designer Andrew Prince who will attempt to revive the world of the eighteenth century monarch during an illustrated lecture at 8pm, on Thursday 10 July, at POSK on King Street in Hammersmith.
From glittering imperial jewels to an unmatched obsession with art and architecture, Catherine II of Russia reshaped the cultural world of her time. Andrew Prince – best known for designing jewellery for the ITV series Downton Abbey – explores how a German princess transformed herself into one of history’s most formidable and sophisticated collectors.
Andrew Prince has had a passion for jewellery since he was a child. Leaving school at the age of 16, he joined a Bond Street jewellers and his true education began.
He started collecting vintage costume jewellery and soon after began creating his own pieces. British Vogue and Tatler featured his jewels in their magazines and he was then commissioned to make a large shoulder jewel for Michael Jackson as well as pieces for Shirley Bassey and others.
Film and TV work came in and, as well as his worked on Downton, he created many jewels for "The Young Victoria", "Mrs Henderson Presents", Disney's "Cinderella", "The Princess Switch" and even the Muppets, to name but a few.
With his trademark blend of historical insight, visual flair, Andrew Prince will reveal how Catherine’s passion for grandeur and beauty helped define the Russian Empire’s golden age – and left an indelible mark on European taste and style.
Alison Watson, Chair, The Arts Society Chiswick says, “Join us for what promises to be a sparkling evening – a journey into opulence, power, and the life of one of history’s most fascinating women.”
Doors open at 7pm, as does the private bar. Guests are very welcome to join for a payment of £15 on the door.
Membership of the Arts Society Chiswick includes ten expert lectures on the second Thursday of every month (except August and December) and the opportunity to participate in tours, visits, social events and Special Interest Days. Half year Membership available from 1 July. For more information see the society's web site.
The Arts Society Chiswick brings people together through a shared curiosity for the arts, to create opportunities for everyone to be part of a diverse community in which they can enjoy, learn about, participate in, and preserve the Arts and Cultural Heritage.
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