Marie Antoinette's jewelry casket revealed for the first time at V&A

In the United Kingdom, a significant exhibition titled 'Marie Antoinette Style' was unveiled at the V&A South Kensington, London, coinciding with London Fashion Week on September 17, 2025. This exhibition marks the first in the UK dedicated to the lavish life and legacy of the French queen Maria Antoinette and is set to run until March 22, 2026. The display features over 250 exquisite objects, including rare items from her personal collection that have never left France before, such as her jewelry casket, dinner service from Petit Trianon, and her armchair adorned with her monogram. The exhibition not only focuses on historical objects but also aims to bridge the gap between contemporary fashion and the past. It features works inspired by Marie Antoinette from contemporary artists, including porcelain pieces by Beth Katleman and designer Victor Glemaud. Visitors will encounter a blend of historical elegance with modern artistry, showcasing the queen's enduring influence on fashion and culture. The curator, Sarah Grant, emphasized Marie Antoinette's significance as an influential icon who shaped European taste and fashion during her time. In addition to the opulent fashion on display, the exhibition delves into the complex narrative that defines Marie Antoinette's life, from her extravagant tastes to her tragic downfall, which continues to intrigue scholars and enthusiasts alike. The narrative has been enriched by modern portrayals, like the biography by Antonia Fraser and Sofia Coppola's Oscar-winning film adaptation, which revived interest in Antoinette's life and character by painting her in a more empathetic light. Such portrayals reflect the ongoing fascination with her complex persona, combining elements of beauty, luxury, and tragedy in equal measure. The V&A exhibition captures the duality of Marie Antoinette's legacy. Visitors are introduced to both the glamorous and tragic sides of her life, including personal artifacts and the haunting reminders of her imprisonment and execution. By presenting objects that symbolize her journey, the exhibit strives to connect the past with contemporary viewers, illustrating that the fascination with Marie Antoinette far exceeds her historical significance and has evolved into a cultural phenomenon. This unique blend of historical and contemporary interpretations encourages visitors to consider her lasting impact on fashion and societal standards, making the exhibition a significant cultural event addressing both her iconic status and her tragic fate.