Natural pearl and diamond brooch, late 19th century

In the form of the middle section of the Neck Badge of the Austrian Order of the Golden Fleece, set with a button-shaped natural pearl measuring from approximately 6.5 to 11.3mm and rose, circular- and single-cut diamonds.

Mounted in silver and gold. White pearl with minor blemishes and scratches, fine hairline towards mounting, for further information please refer to the SSEF report. Diamonds estimated to weigh a total of approximately 10.00 - 11.00 carats, H-J colour, VS-SI clarity (few I), as gauged and graded in mounting. Brooch fitting formerly detachable but tools are deficient. Signs of normal wear to the metal, scratches consistent with use. In good condition.
"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."

THE HOUSE OF KINSKY

The House of Kinsky, one of Europe's oldest and most illustrious noble families, can be traced back to 13th century Bohemia. It was after the conflict between the Protestants and Catholics, during the Thirty Years' War, that the family rose to great prominence. As the family was faithful to the Catholic Hapsburgs, they were elevated to the rank of Imperial count. Still later, in 1747, a branch of the family was granted the title Prince of the Holy Roman Empire by Empress Maria Theresa. The Kinskys were great landowners and served in high diplomatic or military positions in the Habsburg Monarchy and subsequently in the Austrian Empire.

Impressive residences filled with important art collections included the baroque Palais Kinsky in Vienna built between 1713 and 1716 by the celebrated architect Johann Lukas von Hildebrandt, which remained in the family's ownership until 1987. An important patron of the arts was Ferdinand, 5th Prince Kinsky (1781-1812) who in March 1809 signed an annuity agreement, guaranteeing Ludwig van Beethoven an annual sum of 4,000 florins.

The family was also known for their horse breeding. Such was the success of their stud farms, that the title "Kinsky Horse" was coined.