Van Cleef & Arpels exhibition is coming to Riyadh

Supported by the Saudi Ministry of Culture, the exhibition delves into the storied heritage of Van Cleef & Arpels which was founded in 1906 in Paris, with more than 90 archival documents, sketches and gouaché designs, as well as the highlights of the exhibition, more than 280 pieces of jewelry, watches and precious objects created over the last 116 years.

“The National Museum of Saudi Arabia is proud to host the ‘Van Cleef & Arpels: Time, Nature, Love’ exhibition,” said Laila Alfaddagh, Director of the National Museum of Saudi Arabia. "Museums are beacons of knowledge and they serve as educational centers to preserve history and pass it on to future generations. The partnership between the National Museum of Saudi Arabia and Van Cleef & Arpels represents an opportunity for cultural exchange, introducing the French Maison’s rich and fascinating history to audiences in the Middle East and showcasing jewelry creations that reflect innovation in design.”

Curated by Alba Cappellieri, Professor of Jewelry Design at Milan Polytechnic University and President of the Milano Fashion Institute, the exhibition explores three themes representing Time, Nature and Love with precious objects from the Maison.

Just one of the highlights in the Time section is a 1949 bracelet-watch with spring-loaded flaps operated by two sapphire arches revealing the concealed rectangular dial in an extraordinary display of the Maison’s mechanical prowess.

In the Nature section, a Bird of Paradise clip from 1942 features a platinum beak set with diamonds and feathers made of rubies and sapphires, and in the focal Love section a choker inspired by Venetian door knockers is transformable into two bracelets.

“We are glad to nurture this longstanding relationship and to be welcomed in the Saudi National Museum,” said Nicolas Bos, President and Chief Executive Officer of Van Cleef & Arpels. “This exhibition will be the first of its kind in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.”