Tiffany & Co. Opal and Diamond Brooch

Description:

Tiffany & Co. Opal and Diamond Brooch, attributed to Paulding Farnham, c. 1900, set with various cabochon and faceted opals, in 18kt gold and platinum, dia. 1 1/4 in., signed.

Note: The use of Mexican fire opals suggests the work of Paulding Farnham. Two drawings pictured in Tiffany Jewels by John Loring, p. 150, show a pendant with differently colored opals, including orange fire opals from Queretaro, Mexico, and a brooch with fire opals and pearls. The drawing for the latter brooch also appears in Paulding Farnham: Tiffany's Lost Genius, p. 86, where Loring notes that George Frederick Kunz "was particularly fond of the opals he purchased in Queretaro, Mexico for Farnham's jewelry." The design is reminiscent of Farnham's "Hupa" brooch, shown at the 1889 Paris Exposition, shaped after the decoration of basketwork of the Hupa People, California.
Estimate $4,000-6,000


Items may have wear and tear, imperfections, or the effects of aging. Any condition statement given, as a courtesy to a client, is only an opinion and should not be treated as a statement of fact. Skinner shall have no responsibility for any error or omission.

Keywords