Rare and Important 18 Karat Gold, Platinum, Faience, Diamond, Colored Stone and Enamel 'Sekhmet' Brooch, Cartier, Paris

Created with faience fragments in the form of the Egyptian goddess Sekhmet brandishing a fan of stylized lotus blossom motifs, highlighted by a diamond-set bracelet and arm band, fitted at the waist with two gold belts of zig-zag patterning set atop a plinth backed by a hemisphere with a sun disk above, all decorated with black enamel highlighted by diamonds and accented by rubies and emeralds, signed Cartier, Paris, numbered 8758, with French assay marks; circa 1925.

In good condition. At some point in its history, the faience figure was split into two halves and there is evidence of epoxy along Sekhmet's midsection. This does not, however, detract from the appearance of the piece and is common for pieces dating from antiquity. The 82 single and rose-cut diamonds are approximately H-I color, VS-SI clarity. The variously cut rubies and emeralds are decorative in quality. Slight loss to enamel at base of plinth and top of sun disk, not visible when worn. French eagle heads stamped on mounting and pin stem, signed and numbered on back of hemisphere.
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.

For illustrations of similar Sekhmet jewels by Cartier, see:

The Cartier Collection: Jewelry by François Chaille, page 145.

Cartier: Innovation Through the 20th Century published by Flammarion, page 140, plate 65.

Cartier: 1900-1939 by Judy Rudoe, page 307, plates 254a and 254b.

Egyptomania: Egypt in Western Art 1730-1930 by the National Gallery of Canada, page 532, plates 360-361.