An 18 Karat Gold and Colored Diamond Brooch, David Webb, 1982

designed as a jiashan set with numerous round diamonds of near colorless, yellow and brownish hues weighing approximately 21.50 carats, signed David Webb.

In very good condition. Set with 84 round diamonds of approximately F-G color and VS-SI clarity weighing approximately 3.00 carats. The 233 colored diamonds range from yellow to yellowish brown to brown, they are approximately VS-SI clarity. Please note that the diamonds have not been tested for natural color. One pin stem is slightly bent inward towards the other pin, but it still functions perfectly. Dimensions: 1 1/2 inches by 3 inches. Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from David Webb.
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.

Accompanied by a Certificate of Authenticity from David Webb.

The design of this jewel mirrors one of the stone compositions exhibited in the Ming Scholar's retreat inside the Astor Court at The Metropolitan Museum of Art. According to the wall text at the museum, "This Ming's Scholar's retreat, a garden court and reception hall, was the concept of Brooke Russell Astor and became a reality because of her steadfast and generous support." As The Metropolitan Museum of Art further describes, the landscape within the Ming Scholar's retreat juxtaposes hard elements such as this 'artificial mountain' (jiashan) with more fluid elements such as ponds as a means of illustrating the opposing yet balancing Chinese principles of yin and yang.

According to the archives at David Webb, this brooch was originally commissioned by Mr. C. Douglas Dillon in 1982. Mr. Dillon served as the President of The Metropolitan Museum of Art from 1970 to 1978 as well serving as the Museum's Chairman of the Board of Trustees from 1977 to 1983. Mrs. Astor and Mr. Dillon both served as Trustees of The Metropolitan Museum of Art and shared a deep appreciation for Asian art and culture. Their joint interests culminated in 1981 with the openings of both the Astor Court and the Douglas Dillon Galleries for Chinese Painting and Calligraphy.