Description
This is a remarkable antique French survivor from the early decades of the 1800s, retaining all of its black and white enamel, which is rare indeed for pieces of this age. A very similar example, although without the beautiful flower finials and drops we have here, sold at Skinners’ Boston auction in 2009. Please do read about it, as that pendant (clearly by the same maker) was owned by the famous Parisien actress Gabrielle Rejane, who was often quoted as being “the best dressed woman in Paris” in that era.
This pendant is just so incredibly well-detailed; not only do we have that distinctive black enamel, dotted with white spots, running all the way around the main structure of the cross, we also have hand-crafted filigree detailing within the open work. Along with the stunning foiled pink pastes, there are also four real emeralds and half pearls. The quatrefoil detailing on the cardinal points echo the pink in the main open work section so well and also add extra complexity to the overall design. So much to look at.
There is a fabulous, heavy and original cog type of bale so that you could switch up this antique chain for something much thicker if you so desired. There are French control marks for the silver authenticity on both the ring that fastens to the large bale and on the top finial (verso). The pendant measures approx 8cm in height (including bale) by approx 5.7cm wide.
In pleasing condition, perhaps some pearls have been replaced over her long history and under a strong jeweller’s loupe I can see the teeniest nibble from one of the emeralds but it is in fabulous condition for her age and that precious enamelling is intact…hurrah. Ready to wear-I will include the chain from the images, which is approx 46.5cm (18 inches) long, is silver and is antique.
I will send in a new gift box as the boxes in the images are for display only. I will send by Special Delivery within the UK and by international courier otherwise. Thank you.
