18kt Gold and Enamel Caddis Worm Pendant/Brooch, John Paul Miller

Description:

18kt Gold and Enamel Caddis Worm Pendant/Brooch, John Paul Miller, c. 1950s, the body designed with gold "fragments", reddish-orange enamel highlights, granulation to the eyes, legs, and removable bail, suspended from a woven cord completed by granulated caps, lg. 2 1/2, 20 in., maker's mark.

Note: Accompanied by original receipt from the Cleveland Museum of Art, 1959.

Miller, one of the leading goldsmiths in the United States and pioneer of the use of granulation, taught himself the technique through trial and error beginning in the 1940's. He was inspired by bugs and insects. He felt that many women did not like them, but he thought that if he could make beautiful jewelry of them, then maybe they would come to appreciate the beauty of insects.
Estimate $6,000-8,000

Overall very good condition, minor fraying to cord.

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