Art Nouveau Gold, Plique-à-Jour Enamel, Diamond and Pearl Brooch, Attributed to Gaston Lafitte, France, Circa 1900

Designed as a winged female figure, the wings applied with orange to green plique-à-jour enamel, accented by rose-cut diamonds, the pendant set with an old European-cut diamond and a pearl measuring approximately 8.6 by 6.6 mm., indistinct maker's mark, French assay marks.

In good condition with only minor crazing to the enamel. Nicely three dimensional. The rose-cut diamonds are near colorless and decorative in quality. The very slightly golden colored pearl with faint pink, blue and green overtones, a satin-like luster, and minor pitting. Assay marks on the pinstem and the brooch's support bar. If one removes the pin fitting, a heavily rasped area may be found to the right side of the bar connecting the wings; there are small indentations which may be the residuals from a maker's mark. If one unscrews and removes the pin fitting, on the back of the mounting, to the right side of the center of the bar that connects the wings, the area has been heavily rasped or scratched, and there are small remaining indentations, and in our opinion, probably the residuals of the maker's mark.
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. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Please note that the pearl has not been tested for natural origin.