Description
This is such a fabulous, early piece of c1900 English Arts and Crafts jewellery, with the most attractive leaves and berries design on the crystal drop, as well as the most wonderful detailing on the original sautoir chain. Clearly, all hand-constructed, every twist of the silver links, every oval openwork panel with coils and every hammered disc used in the design. A lovely piece in every sense. I have not been able to attribute a maker, although the work is so proficient as well as aesthetically pleasing, that I am sure it is by a known name.
The silver cap on the large, faceted glass crystal is beautifully done. There are five hammered (planished) silver leaves cupped over the top of the crystal. From there, we have curled tendrils, single berries, clusters of berries and several tiny round, hammered discs, like the one at the centre of the triangular link above it. It is very unusual to find one with such hand crafted detailing on the stone like this – I love it!
In the triangular openwork plaque from which the crystal suspends, there is a central hammered disc surrounded by three of the oval links found in the chain. Two further triangular spacers are to be found higher up the chain. Everything has been so carefully considered in the design and creation of this piece.
The glass crystal has large panels and facets and is in pleasing condition for her age, with some teeny wear along the main facet line as you would expect. No significant flea bites or distractions. The pendant drop from the top of the main triangular plaque measures a touch over 8cm and the wearable length of the sautoir chain is approx 92cm (36 inches).
I shall send by Special Delivery within the UK or else by courier internationally. Boxes in the images are for display only-thank you. I will pack her safely in a sturdy necklace box.
