12-07-201012-07-2010
Skinner Auctions
Skinner AuctionsBoston MA
2529BBoston
December 7, 2010 10:00 AMCalender
795

Fine Art Nouveau 18kt Gold, Carved Opal, Enamel, Pearl, and Diamond Pendant

Sell one like this
$20,145$17,000
Auction: Fine Jewelry - 2529BLocation: BostonDate / Time: December 07, 2010 10:00AM

Description:

Fine Art Nouveau 18kt Gold, Carved Opal, Enamel, Pearl, and Diamond Pendant, the elaborately carved opal depicting a maiden in diaphanous garments diving into the sea against the sunrise, with applied wire cagework, in a polychrome enamel frame of a rooster and serpent, old European and old single-cut diamonds, and suspending a pearl drop, engraved accents, reverse of opal with open pierced floral backing, French and Austro-Hungarian import marks, lg. 3 5/8 dia. 1 7/8 in.

Note: Though apparently unsigned, the high quality of this piece and the French and Austro-Hungarian import stamps suggest that this pendant was part of various exhibitions and salons in France and Austria-Hungary. The strong Art Nouveau themes and materials indicate that this pendant was made in one of the major Art Nouveau centers such as Brussels or Barcelona around 1895-1905.


Estimate $15,000-25,000

Condition report: Minor enamel loss and minor evidence of solder to reverse. Opal with evidence of crazing and hairline.

Keywords

Art Nouveau, France, Hungary, Austria, Brussels, Barcelona, Major