Egyptian Inspiration
The discovery of Tutankhamun's tomb in November 1922 rekindled a widespread fascination with ancient Egypt. Since its founding, the Maison has drawn inspiration of antiquity - creating pieces that bear the imprint of this ancient world.
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Egyptian Pattern bracelet product card, 1924Van Cleef & Arpels Archives
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Egyptian Pattern bracelet, 1924
Platinum, emeralds, rubies, sapphires, onyx, diamondsVan Cleef & Arpels Collection -
Egyptian Pattern bracelet product card, 1924Van Cleef & Arpels Archives
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Egyptian Pattern brooch, 1924
Platinum, emeralds, rubies, onyx, rock crystal, diamondsVan Cleef & Arpels Collection
Jewelry interpretations
Bracelets and clips are adorned with stylized figures in colored stones against diamond-pavé backgrounds. These miniature compositions inspired by ancient Egypt also reflect the Art Deco aesthetic in vogue in the 1920s.
Dreams of nature
Motifs inspired by fauna, flora and Egyptian deities adorn jewels and precious accessories. Lotus flowers, scarabs, ibis and goddesses brilliantly illustrate the rich iconography of this civilization.
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Osiris set, 1989
Yellow gold, chrysoprase, lapis lazuli, onyx, coral, diamondsVan Cleef & Arpels Collection -
Osiris necklace design, circa 1980Van Cleef & Arpels Archives
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Osiris necklace design, circa 1980Van Cleef & Arpels Archives
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Osiris necklace design, circa 1980Van Cleef & Arpels Archives
An enduring source of inspiration
With the Osiris pieces of the late 1980s, Egypt returned to center stage among the Maison's creations. Distinguished by a central cartouche adorned with motifs, these pieces are enhanced by plays of color and contrast, evoking the ancient techniques of cloisonné and inlay.
