In keeping with a series of objects introduced in 2022 by Van Cleef & Arpels, the Eveil du Cyclamen automaton combines the reading of time on the base with a spellbinding spectacle inspired by nature, a dear theme to the Maison. 

Gentle awakening

At the heart of a delicalte bouquet of cyclamen, the butterfly preciously flapping captivates the eye. Adorned with diamonds, emeralds, lapis lazuli, and plique-à-jour enamel, its body flutters above the creation and shows the Van Cleef & Arpels’ High Jewelry expertise.

Airbrush-lacquered one by one in successive layers, the flowers display subtle nuances of pink and purple, identical from one bud to another.

  • Eveil du Cyclamen automaton. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
The cyclamen flowers
Re-working on a cyclamen petal. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Re-working on a cyclamen bud. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Assembling the cyclamen petals. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Assembling the stem on the petals of the cyclamen. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Assembling the stem on the cyclamen leaf. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Assembling the leaf and the flower. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Pre-polishing the cyclamen stems. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Assembling the pistil. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.
Controlling the butterfly. Extraordinary Objects collection, Van Cleef & Arpels.

The automaton stirs to life on a base of two pieces of green aventurine and a bowl of purple jade. Expertly polished and harmoniously sprinkled with inclusions, they demonstrate the Maison’s expertise in selecting ornamental stones rare or unusual in jewelry.

As a final detail, a flower of rose gold, lacquer, and diamonds overlooks the rotating ring at the base of then piece, illuminating the course of the hours.