THE SILVER, GEM-SET AND ENAMEL PHOTOGRAPH FRAME, CIRCA 1900

The circular silver frame decorated with white enamel and circular-cut peridot, chrysoberyl, zircon and spinels of various tints, collet-set in gilt metal, containing a photograph of Queen Mary, engraved to reverse; George from May, May 6th 1935, diameter approximately 67mm, hinged stand to reverse.

Cf: Sotheby's, The Jewels of the Duchess of Windsor, Geneva, Friday 3rd April 1987, Lot 195.

Cf: Geoffrey .C. Munn, Tiaras a History of Splendour, London, 2001.

Silver frame and backing unmarked. Some loss to white enamel – the loss was already present in 1987 at the time of the original sale. Repair to the enamel is possible, Sotheby's can advise who might be able to repair the enamel. The frame is set with 17 circular-cut spinels weighing approximately 28.20 carats in total, 1 circular-cut peridot weighing approximately 1.50 carats, 1 circular-cut zircon weighing approximately 1.90 carats and 1 circular-cut chrysoberyl weighing approximately 1.70 carats. The gems are set in gilt metal. Scratches to metal consistent with age and wear. Accompanied by fitted case made by Cartier after 1987 sale at Sotheby's. In good condition. Below is a list of the gemstones from 12 following clockwise. 1. Spinel 2. Spinel 3. Spinel 4. Peridot 5. Spinel 6. Spinel 7. Spinel 8. Zircon 9. Spinel 10. Spinel 11. Chrysoberyl 12. Spinel 13. Spinel 14. Spinel 15. Spinel 16. Spinel 17. Spinel 18. Spinel 19. Spinel 20. Spinel
"In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Please note that colour, clarity and weight of gemstones are statements of opinion only and not statements of fact by Sotheby's. We do not guarantee, and are not responsible for any certificate from a gemological laboratory that may accompany the property. We do not guarantee that watches are in working order. 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. Prospective buyers should also refer to refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue, in particular to the Notice regarding the treatment and condition of gemstones and to the Notice regarding import of Burmese jadeite and rubies into the US.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS PRINTED IN THE SALE CATALOGUE."

This frame was a present from Queen Mary to George V to commemorate the Silver Jubilee of George V on May 6th 1935. 

In the photograph Queen Mary is depicted wearing rows of pearls, a pearl and diamond collier de chien and the splendid pearl and diamond tiara known as The Cambridge Lovers' Knot tiara.  This tiara was made for Queen Mary by E.Wolff and Co. for Garrard in November 1913 and was originally surmounted by an additional row of pearls.  This jewel was created in honour of another owned by her grandmother, the Duchess of Cambridge, daughter-in-law of King George III.

Queen Mary, better known by her family as 'May', was born on the 26th May 1867, and was christened Victoria Mary Augusta Louisa Olga Pauline Claudine Agnes of Teck. At the age of 24 she was engaged to Prince Albert Victor, Duke of Clarence and Avondale, heir to the British throne. Sadly shortly after the announcement he died of pneumonia.  A year later she was engaged to Prince Albert's brother Prince George whom she married on 6th July 1893.  On the death of his father Edward VII, George V ascended to the throne on 6th May 1910 and his coronation took place on 22nd June 1911 at Westminster Abbey.

King George V reached the Silver Jubilee of his reign in 1935, the main celebrations took place in May.  There was a Thanksgiving Service at St Paul's Cathedral at which prayers were said for 'our Sovereign Lord, George', 'our gracious Queen Mary, Edward, Prince of Wales and all the Royal Family.'