Diamond brooch, Oscar Massin, second half of the 19th century

Of foliate design, set with cushion-shaped, circular-, single-cut and rose diamonds, brooch fitting detachable, French assay and partial maker's marks.

Cf: Hélène Delanoë, Le choc, la dent, la flamme, le procès d'identité des bijoutiers joailliers parisiens, Paris, 1985.

Partial French maker's mark, French assay mark for 18 carat gold. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 15.00 - 20.00 carats, on average G - I colour, SI - I clarity, as gauged and graded in the mounting. Signs of wear to the metal consistent with age and use. In very good condition, well preserved. Gross weight approximately 63 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."

Oscar Massin was born in Liège in 1829. Following his apprenticeship from 1842 to 1851, he moved to Paris where he found work as a bench jeweller. In 1854, he was promoted to chef d'atelier after the shop owner discovered his drawings. In 1855, he moved to the Viette workshop where an important commission was placed to create a tiara for the Empress Eugénie of the French. Massin was entrusted with creating the drawing for this work which included the famous 'Regent' diamond. Together with eight co-workers, he produced the jewel which was then exhibited at the 1855 Exposition Universelle alongside the Crown Jewels.

In 1861, he began to draw new models featuring floral and foliate motifs with very thin, nearly invisible mountings. In 1867, he exhibited again at the Exposition Universelle. When he opened his own business in 1869, he also introduced butterfly, snake and bud aigrettes; and from 1865 to 1870 he was recognized for promoting the chandelier design in earrings. By the end of his career, his workshop boasted twenty-five workers, and his designs were often copied. He worked until 1892.