Gold and diamond compact, 'Delfini', Aloisia Rucellai

Designed as a gold scallop shell, the front embellished with four sculpted fish, accented with circular- and single-cut diamonds, opening to reveal a powder compartment fitted with a mirror, signed Aloisia.

Stamped 750 for 18 carat gold. Diamonds bright and lively. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. In good condition. Total weight approximately 270 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."

Born in Venice in 1928, Aloisia Nobili della Scalla was raised by her mother, surrounded by artists and personalities drawn to the city by the Venice Film Festival. She married Marquese Niccolo Rucellai in the 1950s and settled in Florence, where she began creating jewellery composed from pieces of her own family jewels. Her mentors included Fulco di Verdura and Cesare Settepassi. In the 1960s, Aloisia launched her own collection of fanciful jewellery, the models inspired from her own imagination as well as a range of unique bespoke pieces, made especially for well known people of the time such as the Begum of Hyderabad, the Baroness Thyssen-Bornemisza, Charlotte Ford and Anna Bolchini Bonomi. Her son, Simone, worked with her beginning in the late 1970s until her death in 1984.