An enamelled and gem-set gold Eagle pendant, Morocco, 18th Century

consisting of a large stylised eagle-shaped pendant, inlaid with green, red and dark blue gemstones, the wings each with a stylised eagle motif worked in repoussé, the reverse enamelled in green, orange and blue, featuring a six-pointed star within a rosette, the necklace with gemstones and alternating stringed pearl clusters, with one cylindrical enamelled bead to each side (qannutas), the round clasp set with an emerald and enamelled to reverse

In good condition, some enamelling missing to reverse, central stone with slight abrasion on surface, as viewed.
"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. Prospective buyers should also refer to any Important Notices regarding this sale, which are printed in the Sale Catalogue.
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."

A similar eagle, worked in filigree and set with gemstones, from Fez, Morroco, now in the Musée National des Arts Africains et Océaniens, Paris, is attributed to the seventeenth century (illustrated in Gonzalez 1994, no.147, p.194). The present eagle pendant, which was probably inspired by an eagle such as the one in Paris, retains some filigree qualities in the way that the scrolls are worked on the eagle's tail.