Lot 30
  • 30

Enamel and diamond portrait miniature, Second half of the 19th Century

Estimate
2,000 - 3,000 GBP
Log in to view results
bidding is closed

Description

  • ivory, diamond, metal
Set at the centre with a portrait miniature on ivory depicting a lady in 18th Century dress, inset to a border applied with translucent guilloché blue enamel, the frame and surmount set with rose diamonds, compartment to reverse containing woven hair.

Literature

Cf: Diana Scarisbrick, ‘Jewellery from Renaissance to Art Déco 1540-1940’, Japan 2003, page 97, for a similar example of a portrait brooch.

Condition

Mounted in silver. Portrait miniature in good condition. Compartment covers slightly scratched from wear. Diamonds of mixed colours and clarities, stones bright and lively. Evidence of repair to reverse with some small traces of solder, one edge of frame loose, could benefit from attention by professional jeweller. Suspension loop to frame surmount possibly originally for swing centre now deficient. Abrasions to mount consistent with age and wear. 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."