Platinum, 18 Karat White Gold and Diamond Bangle-Bracelet/Brooch Combination, Raymond Templier, France, Circa 1935

The hinged sculptural bangle supporting a detachable diamond-set clip of oval shape with two arms affixed at the opening set with old European-cut, round and single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 6.25 carats, internal circumference 5 7/8  inches, signed Raymond Templier, French assay marks.

An illustration of the bracelet/brooch combination is found in Raymond Templier: Le bijou moderne, by Laurence Mouillefarine and Véronique Ristelhueber, p. 163, pl. 2.  Also found in Art Deco Jewelry: Modernist Masterworks and their Makers, Laurence Mouillefarine and Évelyn Possémé, p. 215.

Set with 106 round diamonds approximately 6.25 cts. Some minor scratching and abrasions to the surface of the metal bangle and a minor amount of porosity along a few seam lines. In good condition overall. Signed Raymond Templier on edge of bangle adjacent to wide side of diamond clip. With partial maker's marks. The bracelet opens by removing the diamond clip. To do this, lift up on the wide edge of the diamond clip and slide the clip out of its housing to reveal a thumbpiece. Press the thumb piece and pull the bangle edges apart. To reattach the clip, begin with the bangle in an open position and slide the clip pin stem points into the two cylinders. Flip the clip downward to shut it and then push the two bangle halves together until they snap shut. Illustrated instructions available.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.

Modernist jeweler, Raymond Templier, is known for his geometric compositions, which drew inspiration from modern technology.  Templier said, 'When I walk through the streets, I see ideas for jewelry everywhere - wheels, cars, the machines of today, I am ready to respond to all of them.'  Born into a dynasty of Parisian jewelers - Maison Templier et Fils, founded by his grandfather in 1849 - Templier joined the family business in 1922 and began creating his unusual jewels.  He regularly participated in international exhibitions and was involved in the contemporary art movement in Paris, where he was a founding member of the UAM, Union des Artistes Modernes.  In 1935, he took over the management of the firm which remained open until 1965.

As an innovator of jewelry during the Art Deco period when geometric forms dominated the fine and decorative arts, Raymond Templier created designs that have become emblematic of their time.  His mode, characterized by contrasts of matte and shiny surfaces and volumes and flat planes, was reflective of art rather than of traditional jewelry that emphasized important gemstones.  Templier said, 'A piece of jewelry is above all dark and light and not just sparkle.'  Although he utilized precious gemstones such as diamonds, it was in an imaginative manner that is evocative of an artist who paints with particular hues or a sculptor who fashions forms out of a variety of materials.  Templier created jewelry that was about design, not about the materials.

The design of this bracelet is simple, yet its subtle complexity denotes the work of a master.  Whereas bracelet bands are usually the same pattern from one end to the other, this bangle is created as a solid mass on one side of the clip brooch while the opposite side is divided in the center by a furrow.  The diamond-set clip brooch can be removed from the bracelet and worn separately.  This convertible bangle-bracelet with a clip brooch is among the first such conceived jewels that can function in a dual manner.

Only a few very gifted designers break with the past to create a new style.  Raymond Templier is one such innovator whose jewelry transcends time.  This bangle-bracelet and clip brooch is emblematic of the mid 1930s but its style resonates with jewelry connoisseurs today.