ENAMEL AND GEM-SET DEMI-PARURE AND LIPSTICK HOLDER, FRASCAROLO, 1960s

Comprising: an articulated bracelet designed as a pair of opposing tigers decorated with white, black and rust enamel, to circular-cut ruby eyes, highlighted with brilliant- and single-cut diamonds, inner circumference approximately 175mm, maker's marks; together with a pair of ear clips and lipstick case of similar design, maker's marks to ear clips, part illustrated.

Potential bidders who intend to export this lot are advised that permits may be required for import in certain countries. If you are interested in this lot please contact the Jewellery Department before bidding. Bracelet and earrings: Stamped 750 and 18 K for 18 carat gold, maker's marks, made in Italy and modele depose. Enamel has been restored in places, discoloured, more cream than white. Diamonds bright and lively, rubies well matched in size and colour. Bracelet weighing approximately 91.7 grams. Secure clasp, safety catch to one side. Earrings with secure clips. Lipstick holder: Enamel to nose chipped, small chips and scratches to white enamel visible with magnification. Rubies well matched in size and colour, diamonds bright and lively. Could benefit from a careful professional clean, residues of lipstick still remaining. Weighting approximately 79.5 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 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."

Frascarolo & Co. was an international jewellery firm founded by Rino Frascarolo and Aldo Lenti.
After an apprenticeship with the Lunati family goldsmiths in the late sixties, they started to produce jewellery to rival the leading French houses of the day.

Renzo Basini, a Milanese designer and sculptor, Antonio Pietrolucci an engraver and Augusto Iberti a goldsmith specialising in concealed settings, were part of a unique creative and technical team lead by Rino Frascarolo that introduced in the jewellery word a wide range of sculptural jewellery, taking its inspiration from the animal kingdom, representing tigers, lions, panthers, leopards, zebras, and elephants.

In 1970 they opened a shop on 745 Fifth Avenue New York where their American clientele eagerly sought their latest designs inspired by playing cards. The original and artistic production was interrupted with the sudden death of Rino Frascarolo in 1976.