Step into Cindy Chao’s Shanghai Maison

Every aspect of CINDY CHAO The Art Jewel is an artistic vision, extending far beyond the realms of the precious works of art themselves. With her heritage grounded by the architectural expertise of her grandfather, the interplay between her pieces and the spaces in which they are showcased has always been second to none.

While her global exhibitions have showcased her Black Label Masterpieces to awe-inspiring effect, it’s within the walls of Cindy Chao’s artisanal Maisons that the true magic of the brand is brought to life. Celebrating her 15th anniversary in 2020, Chao wanted to mark the milestone achievement with the opening of a Shanghai Maison – a glimpse into her world that’s as rarefied as the precious stones housed within. The first private showroom to complete her trilogy of destinations – the showrooms in Hong Kong and Taipei – the invitation- and appointment-only space is imagined as Chao’s home, imbuing emotion and creating a deeply personal connection between the visitor, the artist and the pieces.

An extension of the meticulous creative process and elevated craftsmanship that perpetuates the art jewels, this new Maison sought to become a museum-calibre space, reflecting the prowess of the world’s most prestigious museums in which the Masterpieces have been inducted. For this, like all great artists, Cindy Chao found limitless inspiration in collaboration.

Having worked with legendary artists, revered architects and beloved household names throughout her illustrious career, she looked to French interior designer Hervé van der Straeten, French-Swedish sculptor Ingrid Donat, and Dutch architect Tom Postma to help shape the Shanghai Maison – the latter of whom Chao first collaborated with at TEFAF Maastricht 2020, when he conceptualised and developed her exhibition space.

The continuation of their combined contemplation on Chao’s journey as a jewellery artist, this meeting of cultures serves to mirror the brand’s European savoir-faire with Chao’s Eastern artistic codes. In the words of van der Straeten, ‘It’s truly a whole universe.’

Here, every detail was tailored especially for this exclusive space; every design aspect a one-of-one element in reflection of the acclaimed Masterpieces. What he describes as “a journey of emotion and anticipation,” architect Postma sparks curiosity from the moment you pass through the entryway. An atmospheric transition inspired by religious architecture, each timber panel bears the marks of the master carver’s chisel, leading the eye to a bronze showcase – hand-sculpted by Postma himself – where clientele capture a first glimpse at Chao’s illustrious trove. Conceived as a resting space of peace and tranquillity, the library – Chao’s favourite area of the Maison – plays host to her personal collection of antique books, sculptures and rare artefacts, while the lounge is furnished with pieces personally selected by Chao to exude a distinguished air of relaxation.

Elsewhere in the Maison is a pair of Armoires Parade cabinets from Chao’s archives, customised by interior designer Hervé van der Straeten. Adorned with ancient Chinese panels of lacquered wood and patinated bronze, the Indian rosewood inside features captivating floating shelves. The result of 1,200 painstaking hours of work, the marriage of Eastern and Western artistry is once again celebrated via cross-disciplinary artforms: cabinetry, bronze work and lost lacquer restoration. Van der Straeten explains, ‘When Cindy asked me to create the furniture, I was extremely excited. It makes sense to use really beautiful objects that serve as a bridge between Western and Eastern taste. Whether in bronze or in cabinet-making, we have developed highly specialised skills that truly straddle the line between tradition and innovation.’

Transcending time without ever anchoring herself in the trends of the moment, for the Shanghai Maison Chao chose to collaborate with artists whom she has an affinity with – connections that appear through earthly inspirations and time-honoured crafts. Not only is she also the granddaughter of an architect, sculptor Ingrid Donat shares a common method with Chao. Working with wax to mould her architectural pieces before casting them in bronze, each piece is enlivened with intricate patterns which she describes as ‘like a scripture’, giving depth, movement and life to a material otherwise cold. Inspired by ‘the refinement and extreme attention to detail of Art Deco’ alongside primitive and tribal artforms, her work features on the arresting bronze doors that conceal the VIP lounge, where a mesmerising golden chamber awaits discovery.

CINDY CHAO The Art Jewel’s Shanghai Maison is by invitation and appointment only; clients can enquire here, where we will then connect with you to arrange your appointment.