Jewels

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Lot 338
  • 338

GOLD AND SHELL CAMEO PARURE, 1850s

Estimate
4,000 - 6,000 GBP
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Description

Comprising: a necklace, pair of bracelets, comb and diadem and pair of earrings set with shell cameos depicting classical and mythological scenes framed by three tone floral and foliate motifs, necklace length approximately 440mm, bracelet lengths approximately 190mm, later extensions, diadem inner circumference approximately 150mm, earrings with hook fittings, detachable pendant drop, fitted tooled red morocco case.

Literature

Cf: Margaret Flower, Victorian Jewellery, Great Britain 1951, page 95, plate 22.  Cf: David Bennett & Daniela Mascetti, Understanding Jewellery, Spain, 1989, page 123, plate 124 for similar examples of cameo jewels.

Condition

Mounted in three tone gold. Necklace: some shell cameos crazed one cracked. Traces of repair to reverse of some connecting links. Clasp secure, safety catch to one side. Bracelets: One cameo cracked. One with traces of repair visible when worn. Well articulated, secure clasp. Later additional links added to lengthen the bracelets, one detached. Earrings: Some crazing to cameos. Drops detachable. Necklace: supple, well articulated. Secure clasp, safety catch on the side. Comb deep. Diadem: three cameos cracked. Later loops on both side to integrate the comb.
"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."