Van Cleef & Arpels

Lapis lazuli and white coral necklace and a lapis lazuli and diamond brooch, 1970s

Restricted Species

Auction Closed

February 9, 04:03 PM GMT

Estimate

6,000 - 8,000 GBP

Lot Details

Description

Comprising: a necklace with intermittent heart motifs of white coral and lapis lazuli, length approximately 755mm, signed VCA, French assay marks, numbered, maker's mark; and a flower the petal composed of lapis lazuli and set in the centre with brilliant-cut diamonds, signed Van Cleef & Arpels, numbered, maker's mark, pouches stamped Van Cleef & Arpels.

Accompanied by a facsimile receipt from Van Cleef and Arpels.

This lot contains endangered species. Sotheby's recommends that buyers check with their own government regarding any importation requirements prior to placing a bid. For example, US regulations restrict or prohibit the import of certain items to protect wildlife conservation. Please note that Sotheby's will not assist buyers with the shipment of this lot to the US. A buyer's inability to export or import these lots cannot justify a delay in payment or sale cancellation.

In 1974 Patricia Seldon, Head Midwife at Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea Hospital, was selected by Shāh Karim al-Husayni, Aga Khan IV (1936 – present) and his wife, British model Princess Salimah Aga Khan (1940 – present), along with a team of specialists to deliver their baby, Hussain Aga Khan, in Geneva, Switzerland. As an expression of their gratitude, Patricia was presented with the necklace and brooch by Van Cleef & Arpels and the two pieces have remained, unworn, with her ever since.