Barry Kieselstein-Cord jewelry: bold, gold and glorious

A Barry Kieselstein-Cord 18K gold alligator-form cuff bracelet achieved $10,000 plus the buyer’s premium in September 2022. Image courtesy of Hindman and LiveAuctioneers.
A Barry Kieselstein-Cord 18K gold alligator-form cuff bracelet achieved $10,000 plus the buyer’s premium in September 2022. Image courtesy of Hindman and LiveAuctioneers.
A Barry Kieselstein-Cord 18K gold alligator-form cuff bracelet achieved $10,000 plus the buyer’s premium in September 2022. Image courtesy of Hindman and LiveAuctioneers.

NEW YORK — The term “wearable art” is thrown around loosely and liberally when it comes to jewelry, but some designers take it to the next level, creating highly sculptural and artistic pieces. Barry Kieselstein-Cord (American, b. 1943-) has dwelled at the place where art and fashion meet since introducing sterling silver belt buckles in the early 1970s that were instantly coveted, launching and cementing his reputation.

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Walters exhibition a showcase for American jeweler Betty Cooke

14K gold necklace by Betty Cooke, 1988. ©Betty Cooke. Photo credit JoAnn Hayden. Courtesy of the Walters Art Museum.
14K gold necklace by Betty Cooke, 1988. ©Betty Cooke. Photo credit JoAnn Hayden. Courtesy of the Walters Art Museum.
14K gold necklace by Betty Cooke, 1988. ©Betty Cooke. Photo credit JoAnn Hayden. Courtesy of Walters Art Museum.

BALTIMORE — During her 70-year career, Betty Cooke has established herself as one of the country’s most significant and prolific jewelers. Betty Cooke: The Circle and the Line, opening on September 19 and continuing through January 2, 2022 at the Walters Art Museum, is the first major museum retrospective of the acclaimed 97-year-old artist’s career. The exhibition explores Cooke’s jewelry and design practice, from her earliest work in the 1940s and 1950s to ornaments made in the 21st century, presenting a comprehensive overview of her rich and immensely varied body of work.

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