Fabergé: The Rise and Fall features more than 200 precious objects from the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts, home of the largest collection of Fabergé in the United States. The show traces Karl Fabergé’s rise to fame, highlighting his business savvy, artistic innovations, and privileged relationship with the Russian aristocracy. Despite the firm's abrupt end in 1918, the legacy and name of Fabergé continues to hold a place in popular culture. (Photo by Thomas Richardson/Tell Us Detroit)

Fabergé: The Rise and Fall Collection now at the DIA

By Mary Moore/Tell Us Detroit

DETROIT (Tell Us Det) - The DIA Gala Celebration on Saturday, Nov.10 matched the exquisite Fabergé: The Rise and Fall, The Collection of the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts exhibition. Supporters were elegantly attired and eager to provide funding for the operating endowment.

When The Rainbow isn’t Enough - Peter the Great Easter Egg was produced at the turn of the 20th century at the House of Fabergé. It was a present to Empress Alexandra from her husband, Czar Nicholas ll. The cost at the time of production in 1903 was $112,000. The value stretch now is staggering. This outstanding jeweled egg of gold, platinum, rubies, sapphires and tiny rose cut diamonds is breathtaking. In order to capture the beauty of the piece, the museum created a dramatic dimly lit setting to showcase a reflection of all four sides. Being surrounded by such beauty was absolutely breathtaking.

The DIA has six of the celebrated eggs that were commissioned by czars for gifts. The movie, “Ocean 12”, used one of the seductive pieces to add a majestic and intriguing touch to the plot. Another classic exhibit depicts the Imperial Red Cross Easter Egg, 1915. The various jeweled intricate pieces were created with exceptional detail. Many of them were so tiny, one had to peer closely into the showcase to appreciate the artistry.

The Dance Ballroom was decorated with the theme of Easter eggs hanging from the ceiling. The band helped keep the crowd rocking with music from Motown and others hits. Other entertainment included Russian dancers in colorful attire- kicking and twirling in the tradition of the culture. Confetti snowflakes were released to further enhance the celebratory atmosphere.

From all indications, the event was a win-win for all.