18 Karat Two-Color Gold, Emerald and Diamond Evening Bag and Accessories, Buccellati, Circa 1970

The rectangular brushed gold evening bag set with numerous round emeralds weighing approximately 10.25 carats and numerous round and single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 4.00 carats, accented by scalloped florets with a woven gold chain, measuring approximately 8 3/8 by 5¾ by 1 7/8 inches, the golden-hued fabric interior with fitted compartments housing a lighter, cigarette case, cigarette holder, lipstick holder, compact, ink pen, and comb, gross weight approximately 1,267 dwts, chain length 15½ inches, cigarette case signed M. Buccellati, Italy and cigarette holder signed Buccellati, Italy, two diamonds missing.

Christie's New York, April 15, 2003, Magnificent Jewels from the Estate of Lillian Goldman, lot 445.

In good condition and very heavy (1267 dwts / 69.49 oz / 4.34 lbs). Some minor scratching to the surface from light use. Diamonds are approximately F-H color, VS clarity. Emeralds are decorative in quality. Evening bag framed inscribed 'E. Winokur 1971.' Mirror is loose, detached at one corner. LIGHTER: Dunhill lighter mechanism, not signed, measures 2½ by 7/8 by ½ inches, weighs approximately 66 dwts. CIGARETTE CASE: signed on right corner of upper lid, measures 3 5/8 by 2 5/8 by ¾ inches, weighs approximately 115 dwts. CIGARETTE HOLDER: signed on rim of barrel, length 3 7/8 inches, weighs approximately 20 dwts. LIPSTICK HOLDER: not signed, measures 2 3/8 inches in length, weighs approximately 38 dwts. COMPACT: not signed, 3 1/8 inches diameter, weighs approximately 123 dwts. COMB: not signed, measures 4 5/8 inches, weighs approximately 35 dwts, composed of plastic. INK PEN: not signed, 4 1/2 inches length, weighs approximately 19 dwts.
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.

Largely inspired by the pre-Raphaelite painters, Mario Buccellati used evening bags as a larger canvas on which to display his intricate motifs. Mario’s original evening bag designs, which first used plush fabrics in the 1920s and 1930s, have since been re-interpreted along with changing styles and times. Well-suited for attending the theater, the most intricate evening bag designs, such as the one offered here, featured specific compartments for personal items and required over a month to create. For additional information on Buccellati’s evening bags, please see Mario Buccellati: Prince of Goldsmiths, Martina Corgnati, pages 55-60.