Inspired by the mysterious male figure, the Comte de St Germain, Hannah Martin’s latest jewellery collection merges historic ambiguity, geometric shapes and virtual technology.
Described by Voltaire as “the man who knows everything and never dies”, the Comte de St Germain was believed to be immortal and his presence has been recorded throughout from the 18th to the 20th centuries. In every recording he is described as being impeccably dressed with precious stones covering his hands, buttons and the buckles on his shoes. This combination of decadence and the supernatural can been seen in Martin’s collection. Intensely coloured stones are placed together for a hallucinogenic effect, whilst shapes take on a masculine and geometric format.
To coincide with the launch, Hannah Martin has collaborated with designer Moritz Waldemeyer to create a monolithic sculpture and light installation for the windows of Dover Street Market. Measuring elevan foot tall, the triangular sculpture will be surrounded by red lasers and will appear to be mysteriously balancing on one of her rings. Waldemeyer (who has worked for Zaha Hadid, Hussein Chalayan and Fendi) wanted the installation to incorporate light, sound, shape and sensation. Despite the collection’s historical source, Martin has also used modern technology to create the Virtual Triangle Ring application with the help of Holition (Augmented Reality specialists). Available on her website and in Dover Street Market, the public will be able to try on her collection virtually all around the world.
i-D Online met up with Hannah Martin and her managing director, Nathan Morse, at their studio to find out more.
Hannah Martin’s collection launches on Friday 18th March at Dover Street Market, London.
