OPAL AND DIAMOND BROOCH, EARLY 20TH CENTURY

Centring on an oval black opal tablet, within a frame decorated with wing motifs accented with circular-, single- and rose-cut diamonds, set between a pair of engraved en tremblant wings similarly set, brooch fitting and wings detachable, fitted case by Biggs, Maidenhead, Norwood & Farnham, inscribed to the exterior 'WINGS OF THE SUNSET'.

Scratched inventory number, one wing slightly misshapen, small areas of solder to the front of right-hand wing, lead solder to reverse of both wings. Diamonds bright and lively. Opal: measuring approximately 21.5mm x 17.5mm x 5.1mm, calculated to weigh approximately 11.13 carats, good play-of-colour, predominance of red, opal with some crazing and light scratches to the surface, black areas to edges without any play-of-colour. In 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."

The fascination for winged motifs in jewellery was originally inspired by the winged helmets worn by the great operatic sopranos like Milka Ternina in Richard Wagner's The Valkyrie first performed in 1870. Wagner mania was to rapidly spread from the stage to fancy dress and further to the diamond encrusted creations of the fashionable jewellers of the day. In 1909 Cartier produced a fabulous winged tiara centring on a 33 carat fancy-brown diamond, for the wife of the American banker J.P Morgan, who helped to carry the fashion across the Atlantic.