VAN CLEEF & ARPELS

CLIP AND BROOCH "PERSIAN TIGERS
Enameled tigers, cabochon emeralds and old-cut diamonds
18k (750) gold
Signed, numbered, hallmarked
Circa 1972
L. : 6 cm approx. - Total weight : 60.1 gr
An enamel, emerald, diamond and gold clip and brooch, signed Van Cleef & Arpels
Inspired by the arts and cultures of the world, Van Cleef & Arpels honors the Persian Empire with a creative interpretation of the Persian Tiger motif.
The Persepolis festivities in 1971, celebrating the 2500th anniversary of the founding of the Persian Empire, were the origin of the motif created by Van Cleef et Arpels: the Persepolis Tiger.
This powerful yet graceful animal is depicted in the bas-reliefs of the tombs of Persepolis, the ancient Persian city and capital of the Achaemenid Empire. These bas-reliefs depict the beasts with ferocity and strength, and are a metaphor for the valour of the Achaemenid people.
Referring to the history and art of the Middle East, Van Cleef & Arpels has interpreted this motif in a variety of enamel colors and gemstones, remaining true to its characteristic aesthetic.
Inspired by the arts and cultures of the world, Van Cleef et Arpels honors the Persian Empire with a creative interpretation of the Persian Tiger motif. The Persepolis festivities celebrating the 2500th anniversary of the foundation of the Persian Empire in 1971 were the origin of this motif created by Van Cleef and Arpels.
This powerful and graceful animal is represented in the bas-reliefs of the tombs of Persepolis, the ancient Persian capital of the Achaemenid Empire. These bas-reliefs depict these beasts with ferocity and strength, they are a metaphor for the valour of the Achaemenid people.
Referring to the History and art of the Middle East, Van Cleef and Arpels has interpreted this motif remaining true to its characteristic aesthetic.
Evelyne Possémé, Van Cleef & Arpels
The Art of High Jewelry, Paris, 2012, p. 200 for an illustration of a similar brooch.