Contemporary jewelry artist Anna Hu has marked a monumental achievement in the world of high jewelry as her works are now part of the permanent collections of four iconic museums across the globe. Renowned for her exquisite designs inspired by traditional Chinese art and classical music, Hu’s pieces have made their mark in the British Museum (London), the Museum of Fine Arts (Boston), the Musée des Arts Décoratifs (Paris), and the State Historical Museum (Moscow).
Among the celebrated pieces, Hu’s Enchanted White Lily bangle takes center stage in the British Museum. This stunning bangle, which features a 30.48-carat natural rubellite, is adorned with yellow enamel stamens, rock crystal details, and lustrous silver petals. Inspired by traditional Chinese flower paintings from the Qing dynasty and Schumann’s A Poet’s Love, it has been hailed by British Museum curator Jessica Harrison-Hall as reminiscent of 19th-century court jewelry.
Alongside the bangle, Hu’s Enchanted Ania brooch finds a new home at the Museum of Fine Arts in Boston. Known for its juxtaposition of naturalism and bold design, this piece draws inspiration from Zhang Daqian’s Orchid painting. It features soft titanium petals and spinel-adorned stamens, with a form evoking Chinese calligraphy. This acquisition highlights Hu’s growing global recognition.
Two years earlier, Hu’s bold Yin Yang hand ornament was inducted into the Musée des Arts Décoratifs’ permanent collection in Paris. Created for American artist Cindy Sherman in 2010, the ornament features two sinuous snakes wrapped around a yin-yang stone, symbolizing the East and West. This captivating design further solidified Hu’s reputation as a visionary artist blending tradition and innovation.
Additionally, in 2018, Hu made history by becoming the first Asian contemporary jewelry artist to have a signature work acquired by the State Historical Museum in Moscow. Her China Red Magpie brooch is an extraordinarily luxurious piece, showcasing more than 500 gemstones, including sapphires, rubies, tourmalines, and an outstanding South Sea pearl.
These exceptional acquisitions represent a profound connection between ancient traditions and modern design, bridging cultures through Hu’s visionary craftsmanship. With her background in classical music and French-trained mastery, Hu continues to push the boundaries of high jewelry, blending the academic with the artistic.
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