Pheasant Claw and Tahitian Pearl Collar, Shaun Leane

Chain-link vertical choker band with 59 pheasant claws and 23 cascading fringes of 645 Tahitian pearls in shades of ivory through gray and black, maximum length 23 ½ inches.

Savage Beauty, Victoria & Albert Museum, 14 March - 2 August, 2015.

In good condition, with slight stickiness on the pheasant claws. Vertical choker band formed from chain-linked white metal strips with three clasps. Fifty-nine pheasant claws set with 23 cascading fringes of 645 Tahitian pearls ranging in shade from ivory to gray to black. Measuring approximately 23 ½ inches in length at maximum.
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.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.

‘When Lee first asked me to work with him in 1993, I was initially hesitant as my mindset was that of a traditional goldsmith. I couldn’t understand how we could afford to make jewellery for the shows as I normally worked with precious metals and diamonds. He was a student and I had just completed my apprenticeship – so how were we to afford it? I felt daunted but he believed that I could apply my skills to any medium to create ‘The Beautiful.’ He convinced me that we didn’t have to work in gold and diamonds, that we could use brass, aluminum, feathers and pearls. This was a turning point in my career as a craftsman and a designer – he had opened up my mind.’ S.L.

Created for Alexander McQueen's 'What a Merry Go Round,’ Autumn/Winter 2001-02.