Exercise In Style, Van Cleef And Arpels

This book is a gem polished by two houses, never once forsaking the ideal of excellence they embrace in their respective endeavours, chiselling stones and metal for Van Cleef tArpels, whittling words for Gallimard. The book presents Van Cleef eArpels through a selection of 25 words chosen for their emblematic dimension. For each word, a dictionary definition, a lyrical definition by Van Cleef mArpels, and an artistic interpretation by a friend of the Maison: artists, designers, writers, philosophers, chefs, photographers, poets. Each chapter (savoir faire, femininity, Place Vendome, enchantment, style) is opened by a poetic "theatre" in laser cut paper. The book captures a poetic and literary happenstance, telling a story about beauty, about poetry, unleashing creation and unbridling the imaginary realm's might.