From the very beginning, Van Cleef & Arpels has offered its clients the possibility of ordering
the jewel of their dreams. Created circa 1908, the Varuna boat was one of the first special
orders of the Maison. Made of ebony, green, and white enamel, rubies, gold, and jasper and
equipped with an electrical contact for a butler’s bell this unique commission was probably
ordered by Eugene Higgins, a prominent figure of New York society in the late 19th century.
He owned the original Varuna steam yacht from 1907 to 1908, which at that time was the
most modern vessel of its kind. It is believed that he ordered this magnificent bell in memory
of it.
Original drawing of the Maison d'Hortense cage, circa 1930, Van Cleef & Arpels' Archives /
Maison d'Hortense cage, circa 1930, Van Cleef & Arpels' Collection