Lot 2
  • 2

ENAMEL, SAPPHIRE AND DIAMOND PENDANT/BROOCH, MASRIERA, 1920S

Estimate
5,000 - 7,000 GBP
bidding is closed

Description

  • Masriera
of oval form, with a design of a confronted pair of peacocks perched on a fountain in plique-à-jour enamel, accented with rose diamonds and a pear-shaped sapphire, to a border and surmount set with square and calibré-cut sapphires and rose diamonds, unsigned, partial assay mark.

Condition

Accompanied by certificate of authenticity from Masriera, dated October 2017. Stamped with indistinct maker's mark to the right hand side of connecting loop. Diamonds bright and lively, one diamond deficient, wear to stone surfaces consistent with age and wear. Sapphires light to dark blue, transparent/semi-translucent, inclusions visible under magnifications, some with fractures, minor chips, rubbed facet edges and scratches. Plique-à-jour enamel in general good condition, a few areas of minor fractures and scratches. Scratches to metal surfaces. Brooch fitting with some light play, closes securely. Connecting pin to brooch with light repair. Overall condition good. Length approximately 75 x 45mm. Gross weight approximately 21.5 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.
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."

Catalogue Note

Accompanied by certificate of authenticity from Masriera.

The firm of Masriera was founded in 1839 in Barcelona, by Josep Masriera Vidal, and is perhaps best known for its work in the Art Nouveau style. Having won numerous design awards at exhibitions across the mid to late 19th century in their native Barcelona as well as in Munich and Paris, it was upon returning from the 1900 Exposition Universelle in Paris that Lluis Masriera arrived at what was to become his firm's signature style. Having witnessed the triumph of Art Nouveau at this event, Masriera set about completely reinvigorating his firm's jewellery designs, selling off old stock and wholeheartedly embracing the new aesthetic. The present design confidently embodies their mastery of plique-à-jour enamel, a challenging technique resembling stained glass that was pioneered by designers in the Art Nouveau style, which is still used in their distinctive designs today.