COLLECTION OF FOUR PORTRAITS OF EYES, CIRCA 1820 AND LATER

Comprising: a heart-shaped textured gold locket containing a miniature depicting a lady's right eye, with brown iris; a heart-shaped gold padlock set to the front with an oval garnet, the reverse inset with a portrait miniature on ivory of a gentleman's right eye, with brown iris, circa 1840; a ring centring on a miniature of a lady's right eye with brown iris, within a border of cushion-shaped garnets, size O, and a brooch in the form of a butterfly the wings accented with cabochon turquoise each opening to reveal a miniature of a gentleman's right eye, blue iris and enamelled message 'Je Suis Constant' , all painted on ivory.

Brooch: turquoise medium blue, of various saturations. Secure catch to pin. Light scratches to mount consistent with wear. Pendant: open to reveal an eye miniature. Bracelet: ruby foiled back, crystals visible under magnification. Tarnished and scratches to mount consistent with wear and time. Ring: pink sapphires light pink, of various saturations. Size N. Light scratches to mount consistent with wear. Accompanied by case. All are 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 popularity and appeal of eye miniatures, is based upon their intrinsically mysterious and enigmatic character. In the late eighteenth century, when eye miniatures were at their most fashionable, such a jewel was considered as a deeply intimate gift. The image could only truly be understood and appreciated by those who had given the jewel and those who had received it, as the identity of the sitter remained anonymous to all others. Capturing the gaze of the sitter, eye miniatures recreated that intimate space between the eye of the subject and the wearer. They were more than a simple reminder of absent lovers and family. They sought to capture the soul of the sitter, so that the wearer was reminded of more than just their face and features, but of their personality and passions.