Empyreal

Jewelry and Objets d’Art by Jean François Fichot

“If genuine, every precious jewel or object of beauty mirrors the sensibility of the artist and his inner quest. Personally, I have always considered rare jewelry as talismans. I create them as such, wear them myself and make others wear them as a true object d’art that creates a feeling of elevation, of beauty and of harmony, while at the same time giving protection.”

Jean François Fichot was born in the shadow of the French Alps but it was in Asia that he found his true calling. Traveling to the East in the late sixties, the Bali-based jewelry designer was much influenced by the so called primitive sensibilities of tribal groups and their conception of jewelry reflecting the soul of the individual while playing a protective and ritual role.

Utilizing feathers, shells, bones, antique, fossils and all types of objects and materials, sometimes precious and always unique, Jean François created stunning pieces of jewelry, amulets and objets d’art of a quality which quickly gained the attention and admiration of a small circle of admirers and collectors including Andy Warhol, Jerry Hall, Kenzo, Sting, John Galliano and David Bowie.

In Empyreal, Sin Sin Annex brings together a divine collection of Jean François’ latest work. Tribal sensibilities continue to reflect in his new work, but the key inspirations stem from excavated gold jewelry particularly from the Hindu Buddhist empires of South East Asia. Traces of Mesopotamian, Roman and Egyptian influence can also be found in his latest creations.

As always, Jean François approaches his work in the way of the alchemist, creating surprises by transforming and diverting different elements from their former settings. In this new and unique collection black coral from Cuba, Keshi South Sea pearls, Chinese jade, Lapis Lazuli from Afghanistan, emeralds, tourmalines, rock crystal, amethyst and silver are eccentrically mixed with the finest gold possible. In the hands of Jean François, gold becomes a magical object, symbol of the sun and prosperity.