The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Indian luxury house Sabyasachi have announced a landmark multi-year collaboration that brings together one of the world’s most celebrated cultural institutions and India’s leading luxury brand in a shared commitment to creativity and craftsmanship.
The long-term framework allows Sabyasachi to draw inspiration from The Met’s vast collection of over 5,000 years of art and culture. Through the lens of Indian craftsmanship, select historical objects will be reinterpreted as contemporary luxury products, creating a creative dialogue between global art history and India’s living craft traditions.
Inaugural High Jewelry collection inspired by Byzantium
For its inaugural chapter, Sabyasachi will unveil a High Jewelry collection inspired by the art of the Byzantine Empire. Drawing from objects, motifs, and techniques across The Met’s Greek & Roman, Medieval, and Islamic art departments, the collection reimagines imperial medallions, architectural adornments, and ancient stonework into contemporary luxury pieces handcrafted in India by master artisans.
Executive commentary
Stephen Mannello, Head of Retail and Global Licensing at The Met, says:
“We are passionate about uplifting stories of creativity and craftsmanship housed in The Met collection through collaborations with modern day makers. Engaging with Sabyasachi and his team allows us to view works from antiquity through a new lens, shining a spotlight on stories of the past through his creative viewpoint. We look forward to sparking conversations that inspire fans of The Met and Sabyasachi to immerse themselves in the past, present, and future of art and design.”
Sabyasachi Mukherjee, Founder and Creative Director of Sabyasachi, says: “This collaboration is about engaging with one of the world’s great collections of art and the opportunity to reinterpret centuries of creativity through contemporary design. The Byzantine world was not defined by a single geography; it was shaped by the movement of people, ideas, and craftsmanship across continents including India. Through this collaboration, we are able to transform historic inspiration into modern interpretations that feel relevant, beautiful, and desirable today.”
Rishabh Singla, Managing Partner at LicenseWorks, adds: “This collaboration reflects a shared appreciation for artistry, craftsmanship, and cultural storytelling. We are proud to have supported the coming together of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and Sabyasachi on this landmark project.”
Launch schedule and retail availability
The partnership was facilitated by licensing agency LicenseWorks India, representing The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Future collections under the collaboration will expand beyond jewelry into accessories and apparel.
The inaugural High Jewelry collection will debut during New York Fashion Week on September 15, 2026. Following the runway presentation, pieces will be available at the Sabyasachi flagship store in New York City (160 Christopher Street), global Sabyasachi flagships, and select specialty retailers worldwide.
