A dazzling world-exclusive is set to land in Melbourne in 2026, with the National Gallery of Victoria announcing that Cartier will headline its Melbourne Winter Masterpieces series. Featuring more than 300 jewels, tiaras, necklaces, brooches, timepieces and design drawings, the exhibition will be the largest presentation of the legendary jewellery house ever staged in Australia.
Opening 12 June 2026 at NGV International, Cartier comes direct from London’s Victoria & Albert Museum and will showcase pieces worn by Elizabeth Taylor, Rihanna, Princess Margaret, the Duchess of Windsor, Dame Nellie Melba, the Maharaja of Patiala, the Begum Aga Khan III and American heiress Barbara Hutton. Many objects have never before been displayed in Australia.
Among the highlights will be a spectacular display of more than 20 tiaras, including Cartier’s celebrated Scroll tiara (1902), famously worn by Clementine Churchill at Queen Elizabeth II’s coronation and by Rihanna on the cover of W magazine. Elizabeth Taylor’s 1951 diamond and ruby necklace, gifted by Mike Todd, will also feature, alongside jewels owned by Dame Nellie Melba, Princess Margaret and Wallis Simpson, Duchess of Windsor.
Cartier’s famed Tutti Frutti creations, exceptional timepieces and works featuring Australian opals will be presented in a newly commissioned exhibition design by Dutch practices Studio Sabine Marcelis and CLOUD.
Tony Ellwood AM, NGV Director, said: “This exhibition tells the story of how the Cartier brothers transformed their grandfather’s jewellery business into one of the most prestigious international jewellery houses with a clientele including royalty, high society and movie stars.”
The exhibition will chart Cartier’s evolution from its 19th century Parisian origins, through its Art Deco masterpieces, to contemporary works. It will also spotlight Jeanne Toussaint, Cartier’s pioneering Creative Director from 1933 to 1970, who championed the iconic panther motif.
Cartier will be on display at NGV International from 12 June – 4 October 2026. Tickets and information: ngv.melbourne.
