Phillips has named Gaia Maffioli as its new jewelry specialist, tasked with strengthening the department’s presence in Italy.
With 15 years of experience, Maffioli, who will be based in Milan, “brings knowledge of the Italian jewelry landscape,” Margherita Solaini, the auction house’s senior specialist of modern contemporary art, said Tuesday
“Jewelry has long been an important part of Phillips’s international offering, and we are delighted to welcome Maffioli to our global jewelry team in Milan. [She] brings exceptional expertise,” Solaini added.
Phillips is also launching the exhibition “The Art of Wonder,” a collection of Dior Haute Joaillerie pieces Victoire de Castellane designed. De Castellane joined Dior’s high jewelry department in 1999, creating in bold colors, imaginative forms and unexpected gemstone combinations. She moved beyond traditional jewelry conventions, drawing inspiration from nature and fantasy and incorporating motifs such as flowers, butterflies, insects and marine life, along with gemstones including citrine, tourmaline and beryl. “The Art of Wonder” features 21 jewels spanning over two decades, including one-of-a-kind pieces. The exhibition will open to the public by appointment from September 22 to 24, coinciding with Milan Fashion Week.
“We are particularly pleased to introduce [Maffioli’s] presence in Milan with such a remarkable exhibition, bringing together an exceptional private collection,” Solaini commented.
Image: Gaia Maffioli. (Phillips)
