Enchanting Imagination: The Objets d’Art of André Chervin and Carvin French Jewelers
André Chervin (born 1927 in Paris, France), with his New York atelier, Carvin French, is one of the most acclaimed makers of handcrafted fine jewelry in the world. Yet unbeknownst to even his most ardent admirers, Chervin’s true lifetime passion was creating a collection of unique, precious objets d’art at Carvin French.
Over several decades, the Carvin French workshop created several of the Duke Fulco di Verdura’s most extraordinary designs including three pieces on loan from the Verdura Museum Collection:
- Gold, Yellow Diamond, Blue and Green Enamel “Lotus Leaves” Necklace, 1964. Created for Verdura’s 25th Anniversary Collection to celebrate his revival of the ancient art of enameling.
- Sapphire, Ruby, Enamel and Gold “Frog” Brooch, 1962. Originally from the collection of Mrs. William (Babe) Paley.
- Emerald, Diamond, Pearl, Gold, and Platinum “Lily of The Valley” Brooch, 1970.
"Y" Necklace
In the early 1930s, Verdura toured Europe with his new employer, Coco Chanel. Among their stops, they visited the Church of San Vitale in Ravenna, where the mosaic of Empress Theodora inspired Verdura`s iconic Byzantine designs. Transforming the Empress` mosaic necklace into gems and adding a decadent drop, Verdura created the “Y” Necklace.
Acorn Cufflinks
A modern translation of Verdura’s archive of floral motifs, the Acorn Cufflinks are a staple for every gentleman’s wardrobe.
