Royal Treasures: a dazzling exhibition at the Hôtel de la Marine in Paris

The Al Thani Collection and the Victoria and Albert Museum are teaming up to bring us a spectacular new exhibition. Running from December 10, 2025, to April 6, 2026, don’t miss "Dynastic Jewels" at the Hôtel de la Marine in Paris.

Diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and pearls... Truly precious treasures are on display at the stunning Hôtel de la Marine. For the latest exhibition, the Al Thani Collection has teamed up once again with the Victoria and Albert Museum to present an unusual and captivating showcase. This time, visitors can marvel at extraordinary jewelry pieces and craftsmanship that once belonged to Europe's royal and imperial families.

From December 10, 2025, to April 6, 2026, visitors can explore the exhibition Dynastic Jewels: a stunning display of dozens of exquisite jewels arranged in an impressive journey, appealing not only to jewelry enthusiasts and lovers of fine objects but also to history buffs.

In fact, the Victoria and Albert Museum and the Al Thani Collection present jewels, accessories and goldsmith's pieces that have marked the history of jewelry. More specifically, you can admire rare and historic pieces, some of which were worn by noblemen and members of Europe's royal families. Diadems, necklaces and brooches sparkled around the necks of Queen Victoria, Josephine de Beauharnais (Napoleon I's first wife) and Catherine the Great, Russian tsarina and empress.

These jewels, ornaments and accessories were intended to impress, to show the power and wealth of those who wore them. Precious stones, precious metal work, original or opulent ornaments: these exceptional jewels show both the talent of the craftsmen and creators, and the importance of appearance in these royal circles. They could also be used as tokens ofaffection or royal favor, conveying a special message to others.

The exhibition highlights a stunning collection of crowns, jewelry adornments, ceremonial swords, brooches, and pendants, each with its own unique story. Some pieces were given as gifts—tokens aimed at charming a young princess or showing respect to distinguished guests. Others, made from precious materials, reflect the fashion of their respective eras, serving as symbols of marriage and engagement, or simply as displays of wealth and status.

The displayed objects date from the 19th and 20th centuries—a period marked by rapid stylistic shifts and turbulent political histories, with the rise and fall of various royal and imperial families. Subtly, these artifacts serve as silent witnesses to those tumultuous times. However, it would have been helpful if this broader historical context had been more explicitly explained, and if the figures mentioned throughout the exhibit had been more thoroughly introduced. Similarly, visitors might have appreciated a deeper exploration of the symbols embedded in the stones and designs, and the messages these adornments are meant to convey.

This exhibit may be brief, with only a few rooms, but the pieces on display are truly spectacular and well worth a visit. Take your time to appreciate each artifact, and especially to read the informative details that explain its significance and history, including who it belonged to.

This test was conducted as part of a professional invitation. If your experience differs from ours, please let us know.