Art Nouveau Gold, Platinum, Opal, Diamond and Plique-à-Jour Enamel Pendant, Paul Robin, France, Circa 1900

The large pendant applied with plique-à-jour enamel depicting pink trees, mountains and clouds framed by gold branches, pine cones and needles, the top set with old mine and old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 1.75 carats, set with a modified cushion-shaped opal measuring approximately 4.5 by 4.0 cm, the pendant set with a drop-shaped opal measuring approximately 4.5 by 2.3 cm., maker's mark, French assay mark.

The opals are semi-transparent, almost like a jelly opal, with very good play of colors, mostly pink, green, blue and violet. No apparent crazing to the opals. Diamonds are approximately I-J color and VS-SI clarity. The enamelling is crazed in several of the cells, but remains stable in its mountings. The gold exhibits a somewhat satiny texture. The piece is in good condition overall.
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.

For a discussion of Maison Robin see French Jewellery of the 19th Century, Henri Vever, Purcell translation, p. 735, '. . . Robin's firm was of the most distinguished in Paris under Louis Philippe and Napoleon III, and remains so to this day (1908) . . . The wide variety of jewels produced by his workshop is far too numerous to list here. . . Artistic jewelry proper formed the major part of his production. . .'