Robert Frost’s famous line, “Nothing gold can stay,” may be a poignant reflection on the fleeting nature of beauty, but the Brooklyn Museum is making a bold counter-argument with its new exhibition, “Solid Gold.” This dazzling showcase, which coincides with the museum’s 200th anniversary, throws open the doors to a world of gilded treasures, spanning centuries and cultures.
Opening its doors on [Opening Date], “Solid Gold” features over 500 golden objects, a glittering tapestry woven from fashion, jewelry, paintings, sculptures, and more. This expansive exhibition, curated by Matthew Yokobosky, the museum’s senior curator of fashion and material culture, is a testament to the enduring power of gold. Yokobosky drew from the museum’s vast permanent collection, which boasts nearly 4,000 gold-infused works, spanning from ancient times to the present day. The sheer volume of golden wonders within the museum’s collection presented a delightful challenge for Yokobosky. He carefully curated a chronological selection of approximately 250 works, and enriched it with loans of fashion, jewelry, and art, sparking cross-disciplinary conversations and intriguing juxtapositions.
Stepping into “Solid Gold” is like stepping into a time machine. You’ll encounter ancient marvels alongside modern marvels, creating a vibrant dialogue between eras. The oldest item on display, a large sarcophagus lid from the 22nd Dynasty, makes its first public appearance in over a century, while contemporary fashion takes center stage with a Balenciaga spring 2020 golden-foil gown, designed by Demna. This juxtaposition highlights the enduring allure of gold, a material that has captivated civilizations for millennia.
Gold, a symbol of beauty, honor, success, and wealth, resonates deeply across cultures and time periods. The exhibition is organized into eight thematic sections, allowing visitors to explore the multifaceted history of gold through a captivating lens. From the intricate details of mid-14th-century tempera and tooled gold panels to the serene aura of 19th-century Burmese Buddhas, every piece in this captivating assortment is a visual delight.
However, it’s the golden fashions that truly steal the show. A dazzling array of couture gowns from legendary designers like The Blonds, Christian Dior, Yves Saint Laurent, Pierre Cardin, Hubert de Givenchy, Marc Bohan, Azzedine Alaïa, and John Galliano (during his tenure at Christian Dior) will leave you breathless. The exhibit also showcases Galliano’s ancient Egypt-themed couture collection for spring 2004, a testament to his masterful ability to blend historical influences with modern artistry.
And then there are the jewels, a collection that will captivate any gold enthusiast. A rare prototype of a fly necklace, originally intended for Elizabeth Taylor to wear in the 1963 film Cleopatra, stands as a testament to the enduring allure of this legendary actress. Among the dazzling Cartier jewels on display, the luxurious 1950 écharpe necklace, crafted from gold, platinum, and diamonds, is a true showstopper.
“Solid Gold” at the Brooklyn Museum is a must-see exhibition for anyone seeking a captivating journey through the history of art, fashion, and jewelry. It’s a glittering testament to the enduring power of gold, a material that has captivated humanity for millennia and continues to inspire awe and wonder today. The exhibition runs until July 6, 2025, giving you ample time to experience its breathtaking beauty and delve into the fascinating stories woven into each golden object.
