Drawing on the ancient embroidery technologies and techniques, Johann Nikadimus created and based this headpiece on the portrait of the 18th-century noblewoman Kusova. In this work, Johann used gold and green antique Italian beads.
The life of Johann Nikadimus has taken a few impressive twists and turns. A native of Kazan, he moved to Moscow after obtaining his drama school diploma and worked in fashion retail. As a hobby, he participated in a folk music album recording and the band used a picture of an ancient kokoshnik on the cover. In researching this image, Johann became enchanted with the craft of making these traditional Russian headdresses and started looking for a master to teach him. Now he is one of a handful of artisans who know how to make them. Using ancient techniques including goldwork, pearl embroidery and handstitching, Johann creates fabulous replicas of this historical headwear. In 2022 Johann relocated to Serbia and continues to practise his craft there.
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Drawing on the ancient embroidery technologies and techniques, Johann Nikadimus created and based this headpiece on the portrait of the 18th-century noblewoman Kusova. In this work, Johann used gold and green antique Italian beads.
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To bring this tiara to life, Johann Nikadimus employed his knowledge of ancient embroidery and followed his fascination with the royal high jewellery tiaras from the 19th century, as well as with the Art Deco ornamentation,
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This is a replica of the 19th century headdress "Koruna" (“Crown”) from the Vologda region in Russia. For this headpiece Johann analysed around 10 pieces of "korunas", which are currently displayed in several museums, and then created his own version with similar materials, preserving this ancient ornament in time.
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Johann Nikadimus was inspired by the numerous examples of traditional headpieces displayed in various Slavic museums. For this headpiece, Johann used pearl ornaments and vintage Tibetan brocade, arranging all the pieces so that the pattern resembled golden wings.
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Description This gala tiara is a manifestation of Johann Nikadimus’ inspiration with the Ancient Greek culture and mode. The jewellery framers for this tiara were made by designer and jeweller Anna Hoffman.