Works Exclusive to Tokyo and Special Jewelry Creations

The serpent, a symbol of "temptation, rebirth, and transformation," has intertwined with human narratives for centuries, inspiring myths and legends worldwide. In the 1940s, Bulgari captured the symbol's expressive power, reinterpreting it in jewelry for supple bracelet watches. Over the following decades, 'Serpenti' became an icon of the brand's bold creativity. This exhibition, through the diverse and stimulating displays of 'Serpenti Forme d'Arte,' tells the story of how the serpent has inspired numerous artists who play central roles in contemporary art, design, and photography.

The exhibition route begins with beautiful and original photographs that cleverly utilize ceilings and walls. Here, original prints by photographers such as Helmut Newton and Robert Mapplethorpe are displayed alongside works by Kazumi Kurigami, a star of the Japanese contemporary photography scene, and other renowned fashion photographers, all centered around the theme of the serpent.

Moving into the contemporary art section, visitors will find playful works by Niki de Saint Phalle and Keith Haring, alongside pieces by leading Japanese artists such as Motohiko Odani and Hisashi Tenmyouya, who challenge conventional notions of sculpture and Japanese painting with their bold approaches. This section fosters an exciting dialogue between East and West. Works by Indonesian artist Heri Dono, offering social critique, and by paper-cutting artist Wu Jian'an, who revives ancient Chinese legends in 'The White Snake,' provide different perspectives on the infinite meanings the serpent holds across the globe.

The stylized lines of Alexander Calder and Joan Miró represent the serpent as a positive symbol of energy and life, while Misaki Kawai's eccentric style re-examines the serpent through the lens of video game imagery.

Also on display are works by Hirohiko Araki, the artist behind the "Bulgari x Hirohiko Araki: Limited Edition Bag Capsule Collection" that garnered attention this autumn, and the creator of "JoJo's Bizarre Adventure." This unique piece was specially created for this exhibition through the capsule collection collaboration.

This exhibition showcases the rich evolution of this motif within Bulgari's creative universe. The displays span a wide range, from early stylized pieces employing the Tubogas technique to more realistic creations adorned with gold scales and multicolored enamel. Additionally, jewelry creations specially designed for the Tokyo exhibition are on view, including a magnificent necklace featuring white gold with red coral beads, emeralds, onyx, and diamonds.

Why not also try the "Design Your Serpenti" experience on the web app at serpentiform.bulgari.com, which offers special content related to the exhibition route? Using user-friendly, cutting-edge technology, you can design your own customized "Serpenti" creation, which can even be projected within the exhibition venue. The exhibition also features an interactive display where you can discover "hidden" serpent artworks throughout the venue using augmented reality.

During the exhibition, a Bulgari café will be open on-site. We invite you to enjoy special flavored chocolates and other treats alongside your drinks.