Gem-Set and Rose Quartz Box, Vladimir Makowsky

The octagonal-shaped top panel depicting a landscape with two figures and a dog, composed of a mosaic of carved gold, mother-of-pearl, shell, coral, lapis lazuli, malachite, turquoise and chalcedony, on a rose quartz base, dimensions measuring approximately 3 x 2⅞ x 1⅞ inches, the panel signed 'M' for Vladimir Makowsky, the paper backing concealed by a gold plate signed 'A. Marchak, Made in France'; circa 1930.

In good condition, with very minor surface wear to the gold mounting commensurate with age. Mounting tests as 18 karat gold. The 'A. Marchak, Made in France' inscription on the back is written on a damaged cardboard layer which has been applied with glue. The mother-of-pearl and shell display various iridescent hues including pinks, greens, purples and blues. The various gemstones are intact, with very minor abrasions visible under 10x magnification. Please note this property cannot be shipped internationally due to endangered species materials.
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.Certificates of Authenticity: Various manufacturers may not issue certificates of authenticity upon request. Sotheby's is not under an obligation to furnish the purchaser with a certificate of authenticity from the manufacturer at any time. Unless the requirements for a rescission of the sale under the Terms of Guarantee are satisfied, the failure of a manufacturer to issue a certificate will not constitute grounds to rescind the sale. Gemological Certificates and Reports: References in the catalogue descriptions to certificates or reports issued by gemological laboratories are provided only for the information of bidders, and Sotheby's does not guarantee and accepts no responsibility for the accuracy, terms or information contained in such certificates or reports. Please also note that laboratories may differ in their assessment of a gemstone (including its origin and presence, type and extent of treatments) and their certificates or reports may contain different results.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.

Please note this property cannot be shipped internationally due to endangered species materials. Born in Russia in 1884, Vladimir Makowsky became the leading artist in France for inlaid panels by the 1930s. His intimate scenes, frequently depicting Asian or Middle Eastern themes, were sought after by leading jewelry houses such as Cartier. At the same time, Alexander Marchak had taken control of his family’s firm in Paris, moving it in creative new directions. During the '20s and '30s, vanity cases and boxes represented the height of style. Indeed, as Marguerite de Cerval wrote in her book, Marchak, “In Alexander Marchak’s mind, jewelry did not go without precious objet d’art.” Collaborating with the leading inlay artist of the time would have been logical, though as noted by de Cerval, “we cannot certify he made any of these boxes – he rarely signed his work – it is quite certain that [Makowksy] also worked for Marchak.” This box, then, serves as an exceedingly rare example of a piece bearing signatures by these two legends of Parisian Jewelry of the 1920s and 30s.

All quotes from Marguerite de Cerval, Marchak, p. 139-141.