Discover the Life of Objects in ‘A Glimpse of Van Cleef & Arpels’ Art de Vivre’

The exhibition is located at Les Jardins Secrets within the Maison’s boutique at The Raffles Hotel Singapore.

From now to 23 March, pieces from Van Cleef & Arpels’ patrimonial Collection are being showcased at Les Jardins Secrets, a hideaway spot within the Maison’s boutique at The Raffles Hotel Singapore. There, visitors can discover jewellery creations, timepieces, and other precious objects from the 20th century that demonstrate the brand’s savoir-faire as well as provide a glimpse into the daily lives of their owners.

Shell powder case, 1957, Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

A significant selection of pieces are made in mirror-polished yellow gold. Van Cleef & Arpels started working with the material since the 1920s, often drawing inspiration from other artistic disciplines to enhance their shine. For example, the gadrooned shape of a Shell powder case echoes centuries-old metalworking techniques traditionally used in tableware; these same gentle curves continue to embellish rings, earrings and watches from the 1950s to 1970s.

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Powder box, 1932, Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Evening bag, 1971, Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

Also on display are vanity cases popular during the 1920s, in particular powder compacts in the shape of envelopes. These often come with three folding parts that opened to reveal a mirror and the powder receptacle; some even include a lipstick tube hanging from a chain. Precious evening bags from the 1970s are crafted from woven yellow gold, exemplifying the couture influence on the Maison’s creations.

accessories jewelry necklace diamond gemstone

Zip necklace, 1951, Van Cleef & Arpels Collection

treasure animal invertebrate sea life seashell clothing hat smoke pipe

Other oddities include a paper knife made of crabwood, a Snail pill box, and a champagne swizzler.

One of the Maison’s signatures, a Zip necklace from 1950, is quite possibly the highlight of the exhibition. This clever construction elegantly transforms from a neckpiece to a bracelet when fully zippered. Other curiosities and unexpected commissions include a paper knife made of gold and crabwood, a Snail pill box, and a retractable champagne swizzle used to remove effervescence from bubbly.

axle machine spoke wheel mace club weapon

accessories earring jewelry necklace diamond gemstone

A trio of black and white creations stands out in the collection.

Finally, there are three black and white pieces that stand out: a pin, an evening bag and a lapel watch. Crafted from a combination of platinum, diamonds and onyx, their duotone and geometric forms typify the Art Deco tastes of the 1920s.

A Glimpse of Van Cleef & Arpels’s Art de Vivre is open to the public until 23 March. Admission is free and visitors can register their visit online.

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