Elie Top's jewelry is always out of this world, but this statement took on a double-meaning with his new collection Cosmogonie Secrète, which debuted at Paris Fashion Week AW17.
Top, known for his magnificent, fantastical creations, went to the museum in Antwerp, and right there, he was serendipitously inspired by a sculpture of Agnes Sorel, the first officially recognized royal mistress. Long, pale, heretic, and with one bared breast, she elicited a strong energy. This energy made Top think of ancient, gothic alchemic protection and medieval celestial heraldry. He imagined Agnes as a knight, wearing a heraldic pendant over her bust. One that represented the four elements - fire, water, air and earth - all at once.
Jean Fouquet. Virgin and Child Surrounded by Angels, circa 1450. Koninklijk Museum voor Schone Kunsten, Antwerp
With the name Secret Cosmogony (the branch of science that deals with the origin of the universe, especially the solar system), the collection is defined by heraldic pendants, rings, earrings and bracelets led by the elements and imbued with the corresponding astrological signs, colors, stones, gods, seasons or metals. The stones and metals include yellow gold, white gold, onyx, green agate, cornaline and diamonds.
The elements and their associated zodiac signs, seasons, stones and motifs.
Four shield pendants representing the four elements / Photo: @elietopofficial
The Fire Pendant (Silver, Yellow Gold and Diamond pendant with a rotating cornaline centerpiece).
Large Water Ring (Silver, White Gold, and Diamond ring with rotating green agate centerpiece.)
Large Air & Earth Necklace (Silver, White, Yellow Gold and Diamond necklace with rotating onyx and rock crystal centerpiece)
Rings fitted with cornaline, onyx, rock crystal and green agate stones to represent each of the four elements.
Carmen viewing the collection, pictured with Elie at his private salon.
The former Lanvin accessories designer is in a class all by himself when it comes to contemporary fine jewelry design. And Cosmogonie Secrète gives us not just his impeccable craftsmanship and extraordinary sense of visual balance, but also pieces steeped in meaning that can take on a sense of personal significance and protection when bought for your sun sign element.
All prices upon request - submit query to contact@elietop.com.
Read more about Elie Top here.