The Varuna Yacht Model, 1906 | A Masterpiece of Function and Form

One of the Maison’s earliest special orders, the Varuna yacht model captures the artistry and imagination of Van Cleef & Arpels beyond High Jewelry. Commissioned by Eugene Higgins—New York socialite and owner of the famed schooner “Varuna of New York”—this 1906 objet d’art combines gold, enamel, jasper, and ebony in a tribute to nautical elegance.

The vessel sails atop hand-sculpted jasper waves edged in gold, with miniature life buoys reading “Varuna, NYYC” and an American flag flying proudly at the stern. Originally wired to summon a butler via electric bell, the piece merges utility with exquisite craftsmanship.

This jewel-like model, now part of the Van Cleef & Arpels Collection, celebrates the Maison’s early legacy of bespoke design and imaginative excellence—offering a glimpse into a world where artistry served both beauty and function.

Goes along

You might also like

027

Mechanical Flying Fish by STODEER

Enhance your home or office decor with the Stodeer Innovative Metal Model. This advanced 3D metal pu…
762
1

The Mechanical Nautilus Model

Dive into a world where artistry meets innovation with the Creative Mechanical Metal Nautilus Model.…
657
Untitled design 3

Great Escapes Italy: The Hotel Book

Immerse yourself in the timeless charm of Italy with Great Escapes Italy: The Hotel Book. This capti…
430
Pirate 1

Pirate Tales

Embark on a swashbuckling adventure with Pirate Tales from Taschen. This captivating book delves int…
397
Swarovski Crystal Myriad Hippocampus Kuda 01 1

Swarovski Crystal Myriad: Hippocampus Kuda

The Crystal Myriad Hippocampus Kuda by Swarovski celebrates the grace of the seahorse in dazzling de…
602
The Oceans A Visual Tribute to the Sea 01

The Oceans: A Visual Tribute to the Sea

The Oceans is a powerful photographic collection that explores the vastness and vulnerability of the…
301