thetimes.com
Downton Abbey Film Uses Authentic Period Jewels
The final Downton Abbey film features 13 original antique jewels from Bentley & Skinner, a Mayfair jeweler, adding authenticity to the 1930s setting, with some pieces already sold.
- What is the significance of using authentic period jewels in the Downton Abbey film?
- Using authentic 1930s jewels from Bentley & Skinner significantly enhances the film's historical accuracy and visual appeal. The jewels, including a 22-carat diamond tiara and an art deco aquamarine brooch, are key plot elements and contribute to the overall production's aesthetic.
- How did the collaboration between the costume designer and Bentley & Skinner work, and what challenges did it present?
- Costume designer Anna Robbins hand-picked jewels from Bentley & Skinner's collection, sometimes selecting pieces before designing costumes around them. Challenges included the high cost of insuring the original jewels and the need to supplement with contemporary and costume jewelry to meet the film's extensive needs.
- What are the broader implications of this collaboration, and what does it suggest about the future of film production?
- This collaboration highlights the increasing value placed on historical accuracy and authenticity in film. It suggests a growing trend toward incorporating valuable original pieces, though logistical and financial challenges necessitate balancing the use of authentic jewels with more affordable options.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article focuses heavily on the positive aspects of the collaboration between Downton Abbey and Bentley & Skinner, highlighting the beauty and value of the jewels. The narrative emphasizes the meticulous detail and authenticity achieved through the use of original period pieces, showcasing the jeweler's expertise and the costume designer's vision. While acknowledging the cost, the article frames this as a necessary expense for achieving authenticity, rather than a potential extravagance. The headline, if present, would likely further emphasize this positive framing.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and admiring, employing words like "fabulous," "spectacular," and "lush." The jeweler's pieces are consistently described in glowing terms, enhancing their perceived value and desirability. While factual, this celebratory tone could be perceived as biased toward promoting the jewels and the jeweler. For instance, "fabulous diamonds" could be replaced with "high-quality diamonds".
Bias by Omission
The article does not discuss potential downsides of using such expensive jewels, such as the considerable insurance costs and the risk of damage or loss. While the cost is mentioned, the potential financial burdens on the production are minimized. There is also a lack of discussion about other costume jewelry makers and their contributions to the show, although one such company is briefly mentioned near the end. The article also does not explore the potential ethical concerns of showcasing such high-value items in a historical drama.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a somewhat simplified view of the costuming process, suggesting a dichotomy between using original period jewels and using less expensive alternatives. It implies that only original jewels can achieve true authenticity, neglecting to acknowledge that skilled craftsmanship with replica pieces could also achieve a similar effect. The article does mention the use of costume jewelry from other sources but focuses primarily on the prestige of the original pieces from Bentley and Skinner.
Gender Bias
The article focuses primarily on the female characters and their jewelry, which is understandable given the nature of the topic. However, the descriptions of the jewelry tend to emphasize its aesthetic qualities and its association with female characters, potentially reinforcing gender stereotypes linking women to adornment and luxury items. The descriptions could use more attention to the design details of the jewelry, rather than emphasizing the character wearing it. The article does not mention if there were male characters who also wore jewelry from Bentley & Skinner.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the sustainable use of existing resources by using authentic period jewellery in the film, reducing the need to create new pieces. Reusing existing high-quality items promotes a circular economy and reduces environmental impact associated with new production. Although the focus is on aesthetics and historical accuracy, the practice aligns with responsible consumption and production principles.