- 3
Gold, enamel and paste pectoral cross, 16th Century
Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed
Description
Designed as a pectoral cross set with red foiled paste stones and decorated to the front and reverse with translucent and opaque enamels with strap work design.
Literature
Cf: P.E.Mulller, Jewels in Spain, 1500-1800, New York 1972, fig 66
Cf: Y. Hackenbroch, Renaissance Jewellery, London 1979, figs 336 and 398 and colour plate XV fig. 472A
Cf: Y. Hackenbroch, Renaissance Jewellery, London 1979, figs 336 and 398 and colour plate XV fig. 472A
Condition
Overall the condition of the pendant is good. There is some wear to the surface consistent with age and handling. There are several areas on the border with settings that may have formerly been for a gem, seed pearl or enamel now deficient. There are some losses to the enamel to both front and reverse. One paste is cracked and chipped to one corner, with losses and damage to foil. Measurements: 7.7 by 4.5cm., 3 by 1 3/4 in.
"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."
"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."
Catalogue Note
This form of pectoral cross is a design that was prevalent in Europe from the second half of the 16th and into the early 17th century. For a Spanish origin note the cross pendant in the Walters Art Gallery as well as the design by Ramon Carlo of 1612 in the LLibres de Passanties both illustrated by Muller, ( op.cit.). However the use of pastes as well as the fine basse taille translucent enamelling on the back with its interlacing strapwork are closer to a German tradition. For examples of such Moresque designs see the drawings by Virgil Solis dating from circa 1550 as well as the wood cuts published by Rudolff Wyssenbach of Zurich in 1549, illustrated by Hackenbroch (op.cit)