French or Netherlandish, mid-17th century

Overall the condition of the locket is good with minor dirt and wear to the surface consistent with age. There are a few small losses to the enamel, including: to the top right edge and lower edges of the scene with lady in purple; to the bottom edges of the scene with a lady in blue; and to the edges of the pendant. There are some small dark marks or possible small pits including to the face and flesh of the woman in purple. There are some minor scratches including to the dress of the lady in blue. There is some dirt to the surface, particularly to the interior. The drawing is in good condition, a little faint.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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 use of enamelled flowers and foliage was particularly prevalent on the backs and interiors of miniature cases from the early years of the seventeenth century, influenced by the drawings of a number of French jewellery designers. Note the work of Etienne Carteron, Francois Le Febvre and Balthasar Mercier as illustrated by Evans (op. cit.). Such influences are to be seen in enamelled jewellery from much of Northern Europe by the middle of the century. Compare the present genre scene with one illustrated in the exhibition catalogue by Kugel (op. cit.), catalogued as France, circa 1650.

RELATED LITERATURE
J. Evans, A History of Jewellery, London, 1970 reprint, chapter 6; A. Kugel, Joyaux Renaissance, exh. cat. Paris, 2000, no. 126