The Gallery of Heritage Van Cleef & Arpels presenting the exhibition The clip, a jewel of style and elegance. These are Fifty-four pieces from the Maison’s patrimonial collection, accompanied by archives, which highlight the clip, dear to Van Cleef & Arpels.

© Van Cleef & Arpels
To draw attention to the clip, the exhibition brings together a multitude of motifs, shapes, and chromatic harmonies typical of the 1920s to 2000s, reflecting the gem’s privileged place in the Maison’s history.
Thus, we find clips of wheat sheaves, leaves, chrysanthemums, chardons, feathers and flames, perfect circles, lace knots, foxes, lions and mutinous chicks. Likewise, charming ballerinas and fairies appear, depending on the mood of the moment. For example, on a hat or a belt, they are pinned to the back of a jacket, on a dress, on a shoulder or in the center of a neckline.

© Van Cleef & Arpels
It should be noted that the theme of nature is particularly present in the clips created by the Maison.

© Van Cleef & Arpels

© Van Cleef & Arpels
Moreover, for some of these naturalist creations, the technique of the Serti Mystérieux, quintessence of the art of Van Cleef & Arpels, enters the scene.
So that the Chrysanthème clip, conceived in 1937, in Serti Mystérieux rubis is a true jewelery feat because it is particularly complex to execute. In fact, its subtle interplay of curves and counter-curves, fully set, testifies to the craftsmanship of the artisans of Van Cleef & Arpels.

Mysterious Gemstones, Diamonds, Platinum, Yellow Gold. 1937
© Van Cleef & Arpels
Later, starting in 1954, Van Cleef & Arpels It brings a new and charming wind with charming animal clips. We then discover the ruffled lion, the mischievous cat or the baby seal, which are inspired by the early animated films. They evoke the comedic aesthetic of American cartoons.

Lion Ebouriffé Diamonds, Emeralds, Yellow Gold, Platinum 1967
Malicious Chat Onyx, Ruby, Emerald, Diamond, Platinum, Yellow Gold 1954 / 2007
© Van Cleef & Arpels
In addition, the Cercle clip, created in 1930, pays tribute to the industrial revival of the time. It undoubtedly evokes the Modernism of Art Deco.

Clip Cercle Lapis-Lazuli, Osmior, Yellow Gold, Rose Gold 1930
Clip Cercle Rubis, Diamonds, Platinum 1931
© Van Cleef & Arpels
Come and discover these clips and many more at Place Vendôme until March 30, 2019.
Van Cleef & Arpels
Gallery of Heritage
20, Place Vendôme 75001 Paris