Chaumet, the renowned jeweler, is set to host an exciting exhibition titled “Joséphine & Napoleon: an (extra)ordinary story” to pay tribute to the remarkable life of Joséphine de Beauharnais. This exhibition, which will open its doors on May 19, aims to commemorate the bicentenary of Napoleon’s death while showcasing a captivating blend of exquisite jewelry, rare oil paintings, personal effects, and intriguing documentation.
Joséphine de Beauharnais was not just your ordinary empress; she embodied various roles and achieved remarkable accomplishments throughout her life. Beyond her title as empress, she was also a queen, a mother, a style icon, a botanist, and a conservationist. Joséphine left an indelible mark on history by creating one of the world’s greatest gardens, leading in décor and style, and serving as an influential empress. It is truly fascinating to consider that both Josephine and Napoleon, despite their humble beginnings, managed to rise to the pinnacle of society.
The heart of the exhibition lies in the display of 150 unique pieces that tell the enchanting love story between Joséphine and Napoleon. These pieces include stunning jewelry masterpieces crafted by Chaumet and François-Regnault Nitot, the founder’s son. Among the treasures on display, visitors will marvel at tiaras, bracelets, a pure gold Gothic belt, and a ceremonial sword specially designed for Joséphine and Napoleon.
In addition to the jewelry, the exhibition proudly showcases a collection of oil paintings portraying the couple decked out in ermine and diamonds within splendid palaces. One particularly captivating painting by Vibert depicts the duo meticulously examining miniature mannequins dressed in exact replicas of grand ceremonial robes. This image serves as a visual representation of their preparation for Napoleon’s coronation as emperor in 1804.
Joséphine’s incredible journey began long before she met Napoleon in 1795. Already a widow, she had endured a disastrous marriage, with her husband falling victim to the guillotine during the revolution. Moreover, she herself was imprisoned until five days after witnessing her husband’s execution. Despite these hardships, Joséphine managed to find solace in her passion for botany, becoming a trained botanist with a keen interest in wheat. This fascination led to the popularity of wheatsheaf tiaras, several of which will be highlighted at the exhibition. Joséphine’s commitment to botany extended even further, as she transformed her home at Malmaison into one of the era’s most magnificent gardens.
Nitot, who proudly referred to himself as the “much-envied supplier of the imperial court,” worked closely with Joséphine to develop the Empire Style. Together, they transformed her court into a leading hub of arts and culture, establishing Joséphine as the first influential female art collector in France. The valuable pieces they commissioned also greatly influenced other luxury goods brands, such as Sèvres porcelain and exquisite slippers.
Beyond serving as a tribute to Joséphine’s extraordinary life, the exhibition sheds light on the complex relationship shared between Napoleon and Joséphine. Despite Napoleon’s intense infatuation with her, his military obligations often kept him away from home. The distance, coupled with Joséphine’s inability to bear more children, ultimately led to Napoleon announcing their divorce in 1809. Visitors to the exhibition will have the opportunity to view a letter displaying Joséphine’s written acceptance of the divorce, alongside a fan she had angrily smashed upon hearing the news.
“Joséphine & Napoleon: an (extra)ordinary story” promises to be a truly captivating exhibition, shedding light on the incredible life of Joséphine de Beauharnais and her enduring influence on art, style, and history. Through carefully curated collections of jewelry, paintings, and personal effects, Chaumet pays homage to this extraordinary woman and her intertwined story with Napoleon.
For further reading on Joséphine de Beauharnais and the exhibition, visit these links:
1. Chaumet Official Website
2. History.com Article on Joséphine & Napoleon Exhibition
