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Cartıer Celebrates 100 Years of ‘Trınıty’ wıth a Travellıng Exhıbıtıon

For a hundred years, Cartier’s Trinity has stood the test of time as a jewellery icon that symbolises the maison’s most cherished values of love, universality and diversity of special bonds. This milestone was celebrated in Singapore last month with a travelling exhibition – ‘ Trinity 100’ – representing the creative interpretations of artists from across the region, that kicked off with a glitzy red-carpet event.

The story of Trinity is one of an enduring legacy – a piece of jewellery that’s inextricably entwined with the history of Cartier. A century ago, the French maison unveiled the Trinity ring, composed of three intertwined bands of platinum, yellow gold, and rose gold – breaking away from Cartier’s traditional focus on precious stones. The design’s simplicity belied its symbolic strength, with each band representing the profound bonds of friendship, fidelity, and love – a trinity of values that resonate deeply even 100 years later. Over the years, this ingenious design transcended its origins as a singular ring to become a true cultural phenomenon, also inspiring the collections of necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

It’s only fitting that this iconic creation receives a moment in the spotlight during its centennial celebration, and Cartier chose The Arts House – a historic gem that was once home to Singapore’s first Parliament – for a travelling exhibition that first debuted in Paris, before moving on to Shanghai, and then landing in the Lion City. Spanning over 674 square metres, and with seven interconnected rooms, the exhibition offered an immersive journey to the heart of the jewellery icon – from the daring moment of its creation, to its loyal devotees past and present, and the magic of the number three, each step exploring Trinity’s journey to iconic status.

The number three has been a magic formula for Cartier from the very beginning: starting with brothers Louis, Pierre and Jacques, and the maison’s three historic boutiques in Paris, London and New York. The interlinked bands of Trinity sit atop and below one another, creating an intricate yet harmonious arrangement where no single band is distinguishable as the top or bottom. This seamless unity symbolises equality and balance, showcasing the perfection of the number three and its embodiment in the Trinity design.

Since its debut in 1924, Trinity was destined for the spotlight as it captivated the elite circles of fashion, from Hollywood’s stars to café society luminaries. The narrative of Trinity continues to evolve, embodying timeless allure while honouring icons of past, present and future.

This anniversary of Trinity provided the ideal opportunity for Cartier to celebrate the jewellery icon through the eyes of creatives, an initiative dubbed ‘Imagine Infinite Circles’. It gathers more than 100 works by creative figures from all over the world, representing various disciplines and backgrounds, all weaving a circular story that represents Trinity. Drawing inspiration from the Renaissance tradition of cabinet de curosités (cabinet of curiosities), it is an ode to a universal icon as an inexhaustible inspiration.

For the Singapore chapter of this celebration at The Arts House, French creative luminary Jérôme Sans was tasked with curating 30 artworks to be showcased, each revealing singular microcosms that capture the many facets of Trinity.

A further element to illuminate Trinity’s moment to shine was a star-studded, red-carpet event at the Marina Bay Cruise Centre – an unusual choice of location that had been completely transformed in signature Cartier style – to officially launch the Trinity 100 pop-up. Local celebrities and regional media rubbed shoulders with Cartier global ambassadors Jisoo and Jackson Wang, with Thai brand ambassadors Kimberley “Anne” Woltemas, Thanapob “Tor” Leeratanakachorn, and Jeff Satur also in attendance.

After a variety of headline entertainment acts that included the renowned Sydney Dance Company, Singaporean pianist Churen Li, beatboxer Dharni, local musicians Benjamin Kheng and Jasmine Sokko, it was time for the finale. Thailand’s very own Jeff Satur took to the stage for a performance that can only be described as mesmerising, electrifying, and impressive. Because three adjectives seem totally apt.