The “Zodiac Charm” jewellery collection by Ai Weiwei

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The “Zodiac Charms” collection

In an extraordinary collaboration with the renowned Taschen publishing house, world-renowned Chinese artist Ai Weiwei has designed the “Zodiac Charm” jewellery collection, which is inspired by his groundbreaking artwork “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads” from 2010. The unique collection consists of twelve handmade pendants made of 999 fine gold, which not only represent Ai Weiwei’s artistic work, but also reflect his deep engagement with cultural and historical themes of Chinese culture and history.

From sculpture to jewellery

Since their first presentation in 2011, the “Circle of Animals/Zodiac Heads” have been exhibited in museums all over the world. The zodiac figures from a legendary Chinese fountain from the 18th century were reinterpreted as contemporary sculptures by Ai Weiwei in 2010. The figures – rat, buffalo/ox, tiger, hare, dragon, snake, horse, ram/goat/sheep, monkey, rooster, dog and pig – have now been transformed into artistic charms. The “Zodiac Charm” jewellery collection captivates not only with its artistic workmanship, but also with the symbolic power of the signs, which lends them their beauty.

The artist Ai Weiwei

Ai Weiwei, born in 1957, has made a name for himself as an artist with clear artistic statements on current social issues. His creative spectrum ranges from sculptures and installations to architecture, documentary films and social media. In 2015 he received the “Ambassador of Conscience Award” from Amnesty International and in 2012 the “Václav Havel Award for Creative Dissent”. His documentary film “Human Flow” premiered in competition at the 74th Venice Film Festival, highlighting his versatility and influence in the contemporary art scene.

Effects on the society

In a world characterised by digital media and consumption, Ai Weiwei’s work is becoming increasingly important as a medium for dealing with social and historical issues. His ability to translate traditional art forms such as sculpture into modern media such as jewellery makes his art accessible to a wide audience. Through his collaboration with Taschen Verlag, he has succeeded in transcending cultural and national boundaries and using the medium of beauty to inspire a global audience to reflect on today’s world.

Further information

Ai Weiwei has designed a limited edition of Zodiac Charm pendants made from 999 fine gold. Each pendant represents one of the 12 signs of the zodiac and was produced in an edition of 99 pieces. The charms are attached to a red silk cord and come in a clamshell box with booklet. The price per pendant is 2,950 euros. The Art Edition with the 12 hand-cast zodiac signs made of 999 fine gold is already sold out, the individual charms will be available from January 2024.

Further information on the “Zodiac Charm Collection” (Advertisement) by Ai Weiwei can be found on the Taschen Verlag website.