EMERALD, PEARL AND DIAMOND EVENING BAG, LACLOCHE FRÈRES, CIRCA 1905

The clasp modelled as a bat with outstretched wings, set with rose diamonds, its eyes set with faceted emeralds, to a fancy link chain handle, the bag of mesh design supporting pendants set with rose diamonds and pearls, measuring approximately 145 x 130mm, signed Lacloche Frères, numbered, French assay marks and maker's marks for Julien Duval, gross weight approximately 191 grams.

Stamped with French assay marks for 18 carat gold, signed Lacloche Fres and patent mark Deposé to interior, numbered 13048. Rings at the end of each bat wing connecting to chain handle stamped with French assay mark JD with mistletoe sprig for Julien Duval. Emeralds mid green, transparent, with slight chipping visible under magnification. Diamonds bright and lively. Pearls each of white body colour with green and rose overtones, baroque drop shape, with unevenness, general imperfections and areas of minor wear to nacre surfaces. Bag measuring approximately 145 x 130mm, fancy link chain handle length approximately 220mm. Light scratches to metal consistent with wear. Overall in good condition.
"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."

Please note that the pearls have not been tested for natural origin. Lacloche Frères are responsible for the production of some of the finest jewels of the early twentieth century. Having individually operated a number of shops in France and Spain, it was not until 1901 that the Lacloche brothers formally grouped together under the name Lacloche Frères, establishing themselves in the heart of Paris at 15, Rue de la Paix, before expanding to London, at 2 New Bond Street, in 1904, and then to a number of other locations across France, Spain, Argentina and Egypt. Their collaborations with many of the best jewellers of the era created masterpieces across a variety of different styles, including the stylish Egyptian- and East Asian-influenced Art Deco pieces for which they are perhaps best known. 

This distinctive Art Nouveau evening bag retailed by Lacloche owes its extraordinary workmanship to Julien Duval (b. 1856) a Parisian jeweller particularly renowned for his jewels in sculpted gold, many of which were created in collaboration with the medallist Frédéric de Vernon.