In every language the word Ball conjures the same images: a moment of splendour and harmony. A ball is first of all a prestigious location, a refined setting. It is also the art of elegance, reflected in the attire and costumes of the guests. The ball then becomes a fabulous showcase for adornment, an occasion to reveal and celebrate precious jewels and rare gems. French King Louis XIV codified its practises for the sumptuous Bals Parés that were given at Versailles. Marie-Antoinette instigated a lighter version when she escaped under cover of a mask to go dancing in Paris, at the Bals de l’Opéra. During the Second Empire, the ball adapted to the sensual undulations of the waltz and its swirling crinolines.
In the 20th century, the ball becomes a moment of extreme refinement. It is often in costume. During the weeks preceding it, guests will think of little else than their outfits that are increasingly sophisticated. Some are designed by Gabrielle Chanel (Bal de la Forêt in 1939), Christian Dior (Bal des Rois et des Reines in 1949), Pierre Cardin (Bal du Siècle in 1951) or Yves Saint Laurent (Bal des Têtes in 1956). Count Etienne de Beaumont, the inspiration for Raymond Radiguet in the famous novel Le bal du comte d’Orgel, is one of those who will take the tradition of the ball to its highest level of elegance. Until 1949, numerous balls will be held at his hôtel particulier on the rue Masseran.
Van Cleef & Arpels has chosen to renew this very French and very Parisian tradition of the Ball. The new High Jewellery collection, Bals de Légende, presents five sets of jewels, inspired by five extraordinary 20th century balls. Each tells the story of an unforgettable evening, guided by a sparkling feminine dancer. Since 1941, Ballerina clips are part of the artistic heritage of Van Cleef & Arpels. Five of these brooches representing a graceful dancer have thus been created especially for this collection. It is they who invite us to step into the magical world of these five Bals de Légende.
No comments:
Post a Comment