Lot 38
  • 38

Ruby, emerald and diamond cameo jewel, Benedetto Pistrucci, circa 1810

Estimate
6,000 - 8,000 GBP
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Description

  • Benedetto Pistrucci
  • hardstone, diamond, ruby, emerald, metal
Designed as a pendant set with an oval cameo depicting Cupid, signed B.P., the frame decorated with floral motifs set with circular-cut diamonds, to a later chain set with calibré-cut rubies and emeralds, length approximately 610mm.

Literature

Cf: Bell & Daldy, Billing, Archibald & Pistrucci, B. The science of gems, jewels, coins, and medals, ancient and modern, London, 1867, pg. 135-211.
Cf: Leonard Forrer, Benedetto Pistrucci: Italian medallist & gem-engraver, Spink, 1906.
Cf: Michael A. Marsh, Benedetto Pistrucci: principal engraver and chief medallist of the Royal Mint, 1996.

Condition

Cameo engraved with the initials B.P., in very good condition, slight abrasions consistent with wear, one small chip on the quill. Rubies and emeralds of purplish red and medium green, transparent, typical inclusions visible under magnification. Diamonds bright and lively. Secure clasp. Scratches to metal consistent with wear. In good condition for age.
"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

Benedetto Pistrucci (29 May 1783 – 16 September 1855) was a distinguished Italian gem and coin engraver, a medallist for the Pope and later Chief-medallist at the Royal Mint in London. Amongst his works of art, he is well-known for the St. George & the Dragon design used on British gold sovereigns and crowns since the Great Recoinage of 1816. Renowned for the Waterloo Medal, which took over 30 years to complete in 1850, he produced extraordinary examples of fine intaglios depicting mythological subjects and historical personalities such as Emperor Napoleon.