18 Karat Gold, Ruby, Diamond and Plique-à-Jour Enamel Brooch, Marcus & Co.

Of winged form designed with scrollwork motifs, set with a round ruby weighing approximately 1.30 carats, accented by two old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 1.50 carats, the bottom decorated with seven smaller round and oval-shaped rubies, further set with smaller old European and old mine-cut diamonds weighing approximately 1.10 carats, highlighted with transluscent and silver-hued plique-à-jour enamel, signed Marcus & Co.; circa 1900.

In good condition. The larger, center ruby is a bright medium red, lightly included with a cavity bypassing the crown and the girdle between two of the prongs. The other rubies range from medium red to medium slightly purplish red. They are lightly included with minor surface abrasions, mostly to the facet junctions, the ruby at the center shows more moderate surface abrasions. The two larger diamonds are approximately K-L color, SI clarity and I-J color VS clarity. The other diamonds are approximately H-J color, VS-SI clarity. The enamel is in very good condition with no visible losses. Signed on reverse, pin finding displays turning marks. Total gross weight approximately 10 dwts, length 2 inches.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. 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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

The use of plique-à-jour enamel was a hallmark of Marcus & Co. around 1900. While this enamelling technique did not achieve the popularity in the United States that it did in France, firms such as Marcus & Co. and Tiffany & Co. made use of it to decorate extraordinary pieces of jewelry.