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Labradorite Cameo and Diamond Pendant-Brooch, circa 1880
Estimate
3,000 - 4,000 USD
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Description
The starburst motif centering a round labradorite cameo carved in classical taste with the profile of a stylized Alexander the Great in the guise of Hercules wearing the skin of the Nemean lion, surrounded by numerous full rose-cut diamonds, mounted in gold and silver.
Condition
The diamonds are set in a closed-back mounting of gold and silver showing some usual oxidation. There are traces of solder repair where the pin is attached on the reverse. The diamonds are primarily decorative, they are included and a few stones have chips. The cameo is open at the back, there is a crack on the lower portion of the obverse that does not appear on the reverse. There is a safety catch and a pendant hook.
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.
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.
Catalogue Note
The present cameo is carved in the style of Wilhelm Schmidt (1845-1938) a native of Idar in south-west Germany. After training in Paris, he emigraged to London along with his brother, Louis, a mineral importer, and set up a business at Hatton Garden. The popularity of 'archaeological' jewelry at the time resulted in a demand for engraved gems from many of the top jewelers. Smith was known for his skill and technique in carving unusual and diffucult stones such as labradorite and opal. For additional information, See 'Wilhelm Schmidt, the last Neo-Classical Gem-Engraver' by Gertrud Seidmann, Apollo, CXXVII, No. 317, July 1988.