A fabulous, early statement Sibyl Dunlop of London Arts and Crafts gemstones brooch, signed with a little plaque “SD”, which is highly unusual. I acquired another with the date hallmark of 1926, so I can be sure the design is a confirmed 1920s piece. A substantial design, which is large and heavy ( a lot of solid silver here!), as well as having that rare plaque with the “SD” mark. It is set with amethyst, blue chalcedonies and rose quartz.
I always love the colour combinations that were favourites of Sibyl’s. Here we have the purple and lilac / grey combination foiled by the pink of the rose quartz cabochons. I love that the central amethyst is so highly-domed and has a great deal of interesting inclusions too. The rounded balls setting at the foot of the central stone is so typical of Sibyl’s work. Small flowers are decorated within the first halo after that and on the final halo, there are larger leaves that almost seem to have rotational movement in their design. Six alternating stones are set on the outer edge of the brooch.
To the verso, the finish is smooth, hammered by hand as you can see every indentation of Sibyl’s hammer. It retains its pin, hinge and early rollover safety catch. The brooch measures approx 4.7cm in diameter and is in pleasing condition. The stones are closed-back and there is evidence of water/ cleaning fluid discolouration at the base of ta couple of stones. I see this quite a lot with closed-back stones. Luckily it does not make much of an impact at all on this lovely brooch.
I shall send by complimentary courier internationally or by special delivery within the UK. I’ll package her well in a new box to keep her safe. Boxes in the images are for display only. Thank you. Ref:cuy