An important diamond devant de corsage, Late 18th Century

Composed of a series of swags, with ribbon and floral motifs, suspending three detachable tassels, set with rose diamonds, measuring approximately 240 x 130mm, later fitted case.

Mounted in silver and gold. Diamonds of mixed colours and clarities, stones bright and lively., some slight discolouration to foil commensurate with age. Jewel weighing approximately 220.7 grams. Well articulated. Fittings to reverse where jewel would have been sown onto dress, or attached to ribbons to be worn on neck. Signs of wear to mount consistent with age. In good condition. Accompanied by later fitted case.
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective, qualified opinion. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This piece demonstrates the 18^th Century Fashion for using jewellery to decorate not only the neck but also the dress as well. A jewel of this size is extremely rare as many pieces were often broken up and sold or re-set to keep up with ever changing fashions. The use of rose diamonds allowed the jeweller to shape the stones into the design they wanted while foiling on the reverse of the stones gave a beautiful soft sparkle in the candlelight. The quality of the work on this jewel is evident not only in the articulation but also in the layer of gold applied on the reverse which would have protected the valuable garments from being soiled through the oxidization of the silver mounts.

This piece would have been sown onto the front of the bodice, the loops on either end allowing for a ribbon to be added so the jewel could be worn as an elaborate choker.