The Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection has officially landed at L’ÉCOLE Middle East, School of Jewelry Arts, in Dubai Design District (d3) and it’s every bit as captivating as you’d hope.
Running until Saturday April 26, 2025, this first-of-its-kind exhibition in the region showcases more than 700 rings from the extraordinary personal collection of the late Yves Gastou, a French antique art dealer whose passion for jewellery spanned several decades.
With its opening perfectly timed alongside the tenth edition of Dubai Design Week, this exhibition is already drawing crowds. Gastou’s collection dives deep into history, design and symbolism, offering a unique glimpse into the evolution of men’s rings across cultures and centuries.
The collection is an eclectic treasure trove, curated by Gastou over 40 years of scouring auctions, workshops and flea markets.
You’ll find everything from 17th-century Venetian doge rings to 1970s American biker pieces, ancient Egyptian amulets to contemporary works of art.
Divided into five themes – History, Gothic, Christian Mysticism, Vanitas and Eclecticism –the exhibition feels like stepping into a jewellery box filled with stories waiting to
be discovered.
Gastou’s taste for the unusual shines through with his collection of skull rings, ancient posy rings and bold designs worn by Venetian rulers. Each piece reflects the timeless appeal of rings as symbols of power, personal expression and even rebellion.
As with all things at L’ÉCOLE Middle East, it’s not just about looking but learning. Visitors can explore the exhibition with guided tours and plenty of hands-on activities. Expect workshops, course demonstrations and even kids’ sessions.
“We are thrilled to present the ‘Men’s Rings, Yves Gastou Collection’ in Dubai,
a city that perfectly balances tradition with modernity,” says Sophie Claudel, Director of L’ÉCOLE Middle East.
Fancy diving even deeper? L’ÉCOLE has also relaunched its jewellery courses, with new offerings like “The Making of a Jewel” and “Discovering the World of Gemstones.” Perfect for anyone curious about the magic behind the sparkle, the sessions are open to everyone from beginners to collectors.
The exhibition is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10am to 7pm (UAE time). Whether you’re here for the history, the craftsmanship, or just to upgrade your Instagram game, this is one exhibition you don’t want to miss.
Entry is free, you just need to register on the website: lecolevancleefarpels.com/me.
So, if you’re looking for something different to do, make your way to d3 in Dubai and immerse yourself in the world of men’s jewellery.
Free. Open Tue-Sat 10am-7pm (UAE time). Until Sat Apr 26, 2025. Building 10, Dubai Design District (d3), lecolevancleefarpels.com/me.
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