Two gold and gem set pendants, English school, portraits of eyes, 1820s

Comprising: a Maltese cross pendant set to the centre with a square miniature depicting the right eye of a lady, with brown iris painted on ivory, within a cannetille frame and carved carnelian to the cardinal points, glazed hair locket to the reverse; together with a Maltese cross pendant set to the centre with a square miniature depicting the right eye of a gentleman, with brown iris painted on ivory, with carved onyx and chalcedony to the cardinal points, glazed hair locket to the reverse.

From the collection of late 18th early 19th century eye miniatures, the principle part sold by Sotheby's London December 17th 2008, lots 306-331, in loving memoery of my ever watchful father the late William Anthony Mucci - American Consul 1961-1974.

Miniatures in good condition. Carnelian and onyx with a few small chips. Slight abrasions to metal 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."

The popularity and appeal of eye miniatures, is based upon their intrinsically mysterious and enigmatic character. In the late eighteenth century, when eye miniatures were at their most fashionable, such a jewel was considered as a deeply intimate gift. The image could only truly be understood and appreciated by those who had given the jewel and those who had received it, as the identity of the sitter remained anonymous to all others. Capturing the gaze of the sitter, eye miniatures recreated that intimate space between the eye of the subject and the wearer. They were more than a simple reminder of absent lovers and family. They sought to capture the soul of the sitter, so that the wearer was reminded of more than just their face and features, but of their personality and passions.

Cf: The Victoria & Albert Museum, portrait miniatures room 90a, for examples of early 19th Century English portrait miniatures of eyes.

Cf: V. Becker, Antique and 20th Century Jewellery, NAG Press Ltd, 1980, page 95 for images of eye miniatures.

Cf: Shirley Bury, Jewellery 1789-1910, The International Era, Antiques Collectors Club, 1991, for information on eye miniatures.