Style

Egyptian-inspired jewelry

Howard Carter's discovery of Tutankhamen’s tomb in 1922 sparked a worldwide passion for Ancient Egypt. Intrigued by this historic event and the richness of the age-old culture it brought to light, Van Cleef & Arpels created a number of Egyptian-inspired pieces between 1922 and 1925. Egyptian symbols and images are depicted through contemporary Art Deco codes – geometric lines, repeated patterns and stark contrasts.

    Egyptian inspiration brooch, 1925, platinum, emeralds, rubies, onyx, diamonds, Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

    Egyptian inspiration brooch, 1925 Platinum, emeralds, rubies, onyx, diamonds

Decorations adorning the pieces include depictions of offerings, hieroglyphics, sphinxes, amphorae, bulls, ostrich feathers and lotus flowers. Precious stones – emeralds, sapphires, buff-top rubies and diamonds – come together with hard stones such as onyx to render delicate motifs.

    Drawing featuring an egyptien-inspired bracelet, circa 1925, Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

    Drawing featuring an egyptien-inspired brooch, circa 1925

    Drawing featuring an egyptien-inspired bracelet, circa 1925, Van Cleef & Arpels Archives

    Drawing featuring an egyptien-inspired bracelet, circa 1925

Extremely rare, these remarkable creations are particularly sought after today by jewelry collectors and connoisseurs.