Description
RESERVED for B only – thank you!!!!!
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One of the most impressive examples of Amy Sandheim’s work I have ever come across. It features a massive Swiss lapis stone at the centre of this typical Amy four-pointed open work structure. There are four splendid foliate finials and that particular element I have seen before on another Amy necklace sold at the lovely Tadema Gallery in London. This pendant section is studded with large stones of various shapes and cut, including faceted and cabochon stones. What a triumph! Please let me know as soon as you can if you are interested in her, as she will go quickly.
Amy pushed the limits of size in her designs and this necklace is a wonderful example of how her rather ambitious design, needed extra support on the reverse, in order to maintain the integrity of the piece. Mainly this is due to the amount and size of gems used and how heavy they are for the fairly lace-like open work structure. I have taken a lot of time to study and research the “pinning” in silver to certain areas on the reverse. In line with other examples I came across during this process, it is absolutely my opinion that Amy completed this support work herself on creating the necklace. It seems on this occasion perhaps she was too bold in the proportions and oppulence of her design, meaning that she needed to conduct this remedial underpinning to enable the necklace to be worn securely. Those “pins” are, of course, all in sterling silver and just breathe as part of the necklace.
Such opulence in the use of large stones, this is a huge Arts and Crafts statement from one of the most inspired makers working in England in that era. The pendant section features teardrop-shaped amethysts, elongated oval moonstones, plus a dozen other stones including, peridot, chrysoprase, quartz and smoky quartz stones. It is fabulous and all the stones are in pleasing condition…no damage.
I love that the original Amy chain is present and that, unlike the longer sautoirs, it is of a modern-day length, which means the pendant statement is high on the chest area. The links are lovely-there are two shapes and both are impressed with the same punctuated design. A silver toggle fastener, although I am not sure if that is original as it seems a little smaller than I would have expected. You also may wish to add a safety chain to this beautiful necklace, as I am sure you would hate her to fall to the floor. She has retained her original stones, all in good condition which is actually a minor miracle for a piece like this.
The pendant measures approx 10.8cm in height by approx 9.4cm wide – a statement piece indeed! The original Amy hand wrought chain measures approx 46.5cm (18.5 inches).
In excellent condition with some patina. You know me, I don’t like to clean antique pieces, as it is such a personal choice by her new forever owner. I shall send by international courier or else by Tracked and Signed within the UK. Thank you. Boxes in the images are for display only but I will put her in a box to keep her super safe for transit.
