Bergdorf Special Exhibition Brings Venetian Diamond Treasures to New York

An extraordinary exhibition at Bergdorf Goodman in New York City is set to dazzle diamond jewelry enthusiasts and connoisseurs alike. From May 2nd to May 27th, 2024, Bergdorf Goodman will host an unprecedented display of masterpieces from Casa Codognato, a storied Venetian fine jewelry house renowned for its exquisite memento mori designs and iconic clientele. This very rare showcase, curated by esteemed jewelry and couture connoisseur Tatiana Sorokko, will feature over a century’s worth of Codognato treasures, many of which have never before been seen by the public.

Established by Simeone Codognato in 1866, Casa Codognato remains a rare beacon of Venetian opulence and artistry, operating as a single point of sale from its original location near the iconic Piazza San Marco. Known for its intricate and historically inspired designs, the house draws from Byzantine, Roman, and Renaissance influences, echoing treasures found in European archaeological digs. Since 1970, under the guidance of Simeone’s great-grandson, Attilio Codognato, the brand has continued to epitomize unmatched craftsmanship and design. This enduring legacy has enchanted an illustrious roster of patrons over the years, including Queen Victoria, Elizabeth Taylor, Coco Chanel, Diana Vreeland, Andy Warhol, and Jacqueline Kennedy, among many others.

The Codognato aesthetic, deeply enriched with motifs of mortality such as intaglios, micro-skulls, twisting snakes, and poison rings, is masterfully crafted using the finest materials, including natural diamonds and precious jewels. These pieces are steeped in historical narrative, often encapsulated by the phrase “Memento Mori” — Latin for “Remember You Must Die.” The pieces are not just decorative adornments but are designed to provoke profound contemplation on the eternal interplay between life and death.

The selling exhibition showcases over 30 pieces from important private collections, each reflecting the unique stylistic elements of the Venetian jewelry house. It’s a sight rarely seen outside of Casa Codognato’s Venice bottega. The collection includes items ranging from a Vanitas pendant crafted in the 1980s from 18-karat yellow gold, onyx, diamonds, and antique enamel miniatures; to pendant earrings made of 18k yellow gold and silver adorned with diamonds, sapphires, and antique enamel miniatures made in the 1890s. Other notable works on display include a wrapped skull ring fashioned from 18k yellow gold and carved bone with diamond inlay; a picture frame made of silver, gilt silver, and enamel, embellished with ruby and emerald cabochons; a skull and snake ring crafted from 18k yellow gold, silver, and enamel with diamonds; and a winged skull ring in 18k yellow gold and enamel, set with diamonds; a 3.40-carat rose-cut diamond pendant; and many more. Each piece is a testament to Codognato’s legacy in the art of jewelry making and design.

The exquisite Codognato pieces will receive expert curation from Tatiana Sorokko, who has long been associated with Attilio Codognato as both a friend and collector. Renowned as a key figure linked to the prestigious jewelry house, Sorokko, a former fashion model and editor, lends her vast expertise in art, fashion, and luxury jewelry to this collaboration with Bergdorf Goodman.

“Through his timeless, exquisite jewels and unique artistic vision, for over sixty years, Attilio has been reminding his adoring collectors that life is short, and we are mortal,” said Sorokko. “This exhibition explores the theme of Memento Mori, which has been a constant presence in many of Attilio’s remarkable creations, coveted by the world’s most discerning women and men.”

This exhibition presents a rare chance to delve into and possibly acquire a piece of the heritage of one of the world’s most mysterious and esteemed jewelry houses. It provides a window into the exquisite craftsmanship and design of centuries past. From May 2nd, immerse yourself in the splendor of Venetian artistry right in the heart of Manhattan.