Lot 158
  • 158

ROCK CRYSTAL, DIAMOND AND GOLD SAUTOIR, DAVID WEBB

Estimate
12,000 - 20,000 CHF
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Description

Composed of carved rock crystal links, alternating with floral motifs accented with brilliant-cut diamonds, length approximately 690mm, signed David Webb.

Condition

Signed WEBB, stamped PLAT for platinum and 18K for 18 carat gold. Rock crystal overall in good condition, some minor abrasions and chips. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 18.00 - 20.00 carats, on average G-H colour, VS clarity, as gauged and graded in the mount. Scratches to the metal consistent with age and normal use. In good condition. Gross weight approximately 264 grams.
"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.
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

David Webb Among the many jewellery houses that have shaped modern jewellery over the course of the 20th century, only a handful can truly lay claim to an aesthetic style that is all theirs. Of these, even fewer have been able to stay as consistently faithful to that signature style over the decades. David Webb is one of these.
The enduring image of David Webb is intrinsically tied to his ascent to fame amidst the glamour of early 1960’s America.
His designs made an impression on some of the most influential jewellery collectors of the era, perhaps most prominently Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis (1929-1994). His status as the pre-eminent American jeweller was astutely recognized by the First Lady.

Webb’s animal-themed jewels were a particular favorite among a wealth of famous clientele, for example, the Duke of Windsor, who bought an enamelled frog bangle as a surprise gift for the Duchess in March 1964.
He also found a following in Hollywood: his chimera bangles, themselves a vigorous reinvention of similar traditional Indian jewellery designs and later versions by Cartier, joined the menagerie of Elizabeth Taylor, and a number of his other striking designs also found their way into the collections of stars such as Ava Gardner, Lana Turner and Merle Oberon. 
This remarkable career was tragically cut short – David Webb died of pancreatic cancer in 1975, at the age of just 50. Despite this devastating loss, the company has continued, producing jewels remarkably in keeping with the spirit, imagination and quality that defined Webb’s enduring style, still from the workshop above his flagship store overlooking the bustle of New York’s Madison Avenue.