Lady Arpels Papillon Extraordinaire

Description

A cherished theme\tA limitless source of inspiration, butterflies \u2013 symbolizing the eternal renewal of a poetic and ethereal nature \u2013 have often fuelled the Maison\u2019s imagination.\tIn the 1920s, these winged creatures were transformed into precious clips and earrings; later, they were adorned with Mystery Setting\u2122 (in the 1970s), mother-of-pearl and lacquered wood.\tIn 2010, Van Cleef Arpels went butterfly hunting with a High Jewelry collection entirely based around this theme. Within the Maison, they have also contributed to watchmaking creations like the Lady Arpels Extraordinary Butterflies pieces (2010) or the Lady Arpels Butterfly Symphony watch (Grand Prix du Public 2011, Ladies watch prize).\tFor the SIHH 2013, the butterfly \u2013 that universal symbol of metamorphosis \u2013 lends its delicate form to new compositions evoking the cycles of nature and the seasons: from day to night and from spring to winter. Inspiration\tWith the Lady Arpels Papillon Extraordinaire watch, the Maison revisits one of its emblematic motifs using a new palette of shimmering colors.\tSpread across a flower\u2019s corolla, the gradation of hues \u2013 dominated by blue and pink \u2013 evokes the springtime awakening of nature and the renewed vitality of flora and fauna. Savoir-faire\tA true distillation of savoir-faire, this piece elegantly combines hard stone marquetry for the sections in lapis lazuli, sculpture on gold and mother-of-pearl for the background and the outline of the butterfly, plique--jour enameling for the color of the wings and diamond setting. The harmonious blend of different techniques contributes depth and relief to this three-dimensional composition.

Supplied by the brand to the GPHG for its entry.