A diamond’s tale, a world’s history

ArtsNational Narrabri’s last arts talk for its 2025 season, ‘Koh-i-Noor, the most famous diamond in the world’ will be presented by international art historian Georgina Bexon and will take place in cinema one, The Crossing Theatre on Monday, November 3.

The Koh-i-Noor, Persian for ‘Mountain of Light’, is one of the largest cut diamonds in the world, weighing 105.6 carats (21.12 g).

From an Indian riverbed thousands of years ago to the Tower of London – it is a fascinating story not only intriguing but also full of surprises; the diamond has been the subject of desire, jealousy, intrigue, passion and political chicanery.

The talk will follow the journey from the depths of early Indian history through the bloody history of the Mughals to the power and politics of the British Empire, illustrated by extraordinary artists who were committed to describing the events and emotions of their time.

The history of the Koh-i-Noor is not just limited to its majestic allure; it is also shrouded in the mystery of a supposed curse.

The curse, believed to originate from a Hindu text, states that “He who owns this diamond will own the world, but will also know all its misfortunes. Only God, or a woman, can wear it with impunity.”

History seems to provide credence to this curse.

Many of the male rulers who possessed the diamond faced violence, dethronement, and even death.

Since arriving in Britain, the diamond has only been worn by female members of the royal family, perhaps due to this superstition.

Today, the diamond is a source of international controversy.

India, Pakistan, Iran, and Afghanistan have all staked a claim, arguing it was illegitimately acquired by the British during the colonial era.

The British government maintains its possession is legitimate, owing to the Treaty of Lahore.

The tale of the Koh-i-Noor extends beyond the physical allure of a precious diamond.

It’s a story of power and conquest, a testament to the tumultuous history of empires, and a symbol of national identity.

As the diamond continues to rest in the Tower of London, its legend still captivates the minds of those who know its story.

Even as it sparks disputes over ownership, it also unites history and myth.

Georgina Bexon is an international art historian who has lived and worked in the UK, Europe, USA and Singapore.

Her practice includes lecturing, writing, consulting and collecting and she has developed a network of gallery and artist connections in Europe, the USA and India, which she visits regularly.

Consultant Art Historian at the Oriental Club in London and an official tour guide at Tate Modern, Georgina also presents at leading art institutions and international art conferences, most recently in New York, Paris and Lisbon.

She holds a BA in Art History from Southampton University, an MA in Arts Management and Policy from City, University of London and an MA in Art History from SOAS, University of London.

Georgina is a Freeman of the Worshipful Company of Arts Scholars and is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the Royal Asiatic Society.

ArtsNational Narrabri is part of a volunteer-led organisation offering a wide spectrum of arts-related topics to 36 societies across Australia.

The talks last for approximately one hour, followed by complimentary drinks and canapés which offers an opportunity for questions and a chat with our guest speakers.