The Mountbatten Bandeau
Edwina, Countess of Mountbatten bought the bandeau in 1928. Named one of the six best-dressed women in the world, she charmed high society with her vigour and beauty.
The bandeau was made for Cartier, with gems probably taken from Indian jewellery. Its rich colours hint at the dynamic cultural exchange between Indian and European jewellery during the 1920s.
The Mountbatten Bandeau
England, 1928
Made by English Art Works for Cartier (London)
Rubies, sapphires, emeralds, diamonds and platinum
Lent through the generosity of William and Judith Bollinger
V&A: Loan:Met.Anon.1:1 to 3- 2005
Lady Mountbatten poses here with her new-born daughter, Pamela. She is wearing the bandeau as two bracelets on her wrist.
She bought the bandeau in London in November 1928, shortly before joining her husband in Malta. After a series of arduous journeys, she gave birth five weeks early on 19 April 1929 in the Ritz in Barcelona, to the accompaniment of a military band provided by the King of Spain.