Photo credit: www.architecturaldigest.com
Van Cleef & Arpels Unveils Unique Decorative Object
Van Cleef & Arpels has introduced an extraordinary piece within its prestigious collection of decorative items, showcasing a blend of exceptional craftsmanship and figurative artistry. This unique creation features a round face adorned with a school of fish crafted from white and rose gold, set against a stunning background of paillonné enamel. This meticulous technique involves layering thin sheets of metal between silica powder, resulting in a radiant finish.
The piece includes two interchangeable clips, each covered in diamonds and designed in the swirling shapes of nautilus shells. One clip is embellished with bands of sapphires, elegantly held by the house’s unique Mystery settings, while the other features a mix of sapphires and blue tourmalines. Upon opening the clips, the owner is greeted with a watch dial that is also set with diamonds, and a prominent sapphire indicating noon, enriching the piece’s blue color palette, which is further highlighted by the use of rare Brazilian blue quartz as the base material.
Attention to detail is paramount for Van Cleef & Arpels. The polished rock crystal face includes tiny bubbles, adding a touch of aquatic mystery. The clips are designed with stones of varying diameters, creating a textured surface reminiscent of the ocean floor. The lid’s hammered white-gold rim is crafted as a single piece, presenting a challenge even to the brand’s most skilled metalworkers.
Upon lifting the lid, one discovers two nested compartments made from ebony wood, lined with fine goat leather, offering possibilities for storage that will delight its fortunate owner. The price for this remarkable item is available upon request; interested parties can find more information at vancleefarpels.com.
This article originally appeared in AD’s January issue.
Source
www.architecturaldigest.com