Bosshard Jewellery Exhibition Showcases 130 Years of Craftsmanship

Art enthusiasts and collectors gathered at the Eastern Southland Gallery in Gore on March 15, 2024, to celebrate the opening of “LINEAGE: 130 Years of Bosshard Jewellery.” This exhibition highlights the rich legacy of goldsmithing through the works of the Bosshard family, showcasing pieces that span over a century.

According to Marcella Geddes, the gallery’s programmes officer, visitors traveled from across the region, with many opting to stay overnight in Gore. They were eager to attend a floor talk by Swiss-born jeweller Bosshard the following day. An audience of approximately 75 people listened as Bosshard shared insights into his family’s goldsmithing history, engaging in a conversation with Justine Olsen, curator of decorative art and design at Te Papa.

Bosshard began by recounting the story of his grandfather, Jakob Bosshard, who established his first jeweller’s shop in Uster, Switzerland, in 1895. His father, Heinrich, took over the family business in 1930. Bosshard, born in 1939, continued the tradition by training as a goldsmith. However, in 1961, he made a pivotal decision to relocate to New Zealand, where he embraced a minimalist approach to his craft.

In 1983, Bosshard partnered with Dunedin jeweller and sculptor Stephen Mulqueen to open Fluxus, a workshop and gallery dedicated to redefining their craft. This marked a significant departure from traditional goldsmithing, allowing for innovation and experimentation.

The exhibition at the Eastern Southland Gallery features an array of family works, including drawings, watercolours, and metal pieces that date back as far as 130 years. Visitors were taken on a journey through the timeline of the Bosshard family’s artistry, showcasing both the preservation of European craftsmanship and the evolution of Bosshard’s distinctive style.

Bosshard expressed that living in the relative isolation of New Zealand allowed him to develop a unique aesthetic, free from external influences. “Now, I can confidently say that all the work I have made is my own and is of New Zealand,” he stated. His creations, especially his silver bangles, exemplify this philosophy. Crafted from square rods of silver, the bangles are designed to fit comfortably on the wrist, with some retaining their original square form while others feature subtle manipulations.

As he shared details about his design processes, Bosshard reflected on the significance of his heritage. “I am grateful to my grandfather, my parents, and my upbringing, which enabled me to continue their trade and forge my own path,” he remarked. This blend of tradition and personal expression is central to the Bosshard legacy, making the exhibition a compelling tribute to over a century of craftsmanship.