Bulgari will officially open a lavish exhibition at the Art Science Museum in Singapore: the SerpentiForm will be open to the public from August 19 to October 15. The exhibition is specially curated by the Bulgari Brand and Heritage Curator, Lucia Boacaini, and Singapore is the first place it has been shown outside of Rome. We took a sneak peek at the magnificent collection which unfolds over all the ten petals of the iconic lotus inspired building of the Museum.
The exhibition focuses on the Serpent, an icon of the Bulgari brand, and a symbol intertwined with centuries of stories epitomising seduction, rebirth and transformation. Bulgari started to capture the expressive power and visuals of the serpent for the first time in jewellery watches, and the Serpenti is a mainstay within the collection.
We were there at the Press Event and later in the evening the Opening Cocktails and had a preview of the exhibits. And we say without any exaggeration that it is impressive. And highly recommend a visit.
The Press Event opening was graced by Award winning Actress Alicia Vickander. Also on the photograph is Bulgari CEP Jean-Christophe Babin and Lucia Boscaini, Bulgari Brand and Heritage Curator.
Here are some selected exhibits:
Perhaps we begin with the room of serpent works by the house of Bulgari. A rather interesting collection of vintage pieces from the Bulgari Heritage Collection is shown, from the bracelet-watches to the now signature Tubogas watches, to necklaces, belts, and even a gold evening bag, a pair of Serpenteyes unique sunglasses.
A Serpenti bracelet watch in gold and polychrome enamel and emeralds, 1967. Bulgari Heritage Collection.
Another room showcases a collection of dresses used in various movies and operas.
One of the dresses used in the staging of the opera Turandot carries an elaborate serpent form, displayed magnificently on the back of the dress.
Various artworks in the form of paintings, lithographs, and even carpets with the serpent theme are also featured. A separate room also feature Antiquities ranging form 2nd century Han Dynasty figurines to a Buddha sheltered by the Maga Muchalinda from the Angkor Wat period. Also featured are art by luminaries like Marc Chagall, Alexander Calder amongst others.
A magnificent carpet, woven with the serpent motif over a black background leaps out as strikingly life like.
A room full of photographs of iconic images with serpents. Among the photographers featured are Helmut Newton and Robert Mapplethorpe.
Iconic photographs which have graced many a publication are featured in full sized prints.
Marc Chagall’s God Turns Moses’ Staff into a Serpent, from The Story of Exodus. Lithograph. 1966. (photographed under exhibition lighting and does not reflect the actual colours)
Bulgari SerpentiForm: How to visit
The exhibition runs at the Art Science Museum from August 19 to October 15. Regular entrance fees to the Art and Science Museum applies.
