L13050

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Lot 30
  • 30

Ruby and diamond brooch, Second half 19th Century

Estimate
20,000 - 30,000 GBP
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Description

  • diamonds, rubies, silver, gold
Designed as a peacock, set with circular-cut ruby eyes, cushion-shaped, circular-cut and rose diamonds.

Literature

Cf: Shirley Bury, 'Jewellery 1789 - 1910, The International Era, Volume II', Woodbridge, 1991, page 586. Cf: Henri Vever, translated by Katherine Purcell, 'French Jewellery of the Nineteenth Century', London, 2001, pages 615 and 802; for similar examples of Peacock jewels.

Condition

Mounted in silver and gold. Rubies light red. Three principal diamonds in brooch weighing approximately 1.48, 2.14 and 1.93 carats, remaining diamonds weighing approximately 14.00 - 16.00 carats, estimated colour I-K, estimated clarity VS-SI. Brooch fitting originally detached, now soldered in place, original additional fittings now deficient. Signs of wear to mount consistent with age. In very good condition.
"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."

Catalogue Note

The peacock was a motif popularly adopted by 19th and 20th Century jewellers such as Gustave Baugrand, due to their vibrant colours and ostentatious plumage. In Persian and Babylonian cultures the bird is seen as a guardian to royalty.