LAPIS LAZULI RING, JEAN DESPRÉS, CIRCA 1940

Claw-set with a sugarloaf cabochon lapis lazuli, the mount with beadwork decoration and a planished finish, size M, French assay mark and maker's mark for Jean Després.

Stamped with French assay mark for 18 carat gold and maker's mark J (vase) D for Jean Després. Gross weight approximately 22.8 grams. Overall condition good. Case stamped Boucheron.
"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.
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."

At the age of 16, Jean Eugene Gilbert Després went to Paris to take on an apprenticeship as a goldsmith with a friend of his father. It was during this time in Paris that he became aquainted with some of the leading artists of the Modernist  movement, such as Modigliani, Picasso, Signac, De Chirico, and Georges Braque. Although Modernism and Cubism was to have a strong influence on his later designs, it was his time as an aviation engineer during the Great War that was to have a profound effect on his jewellery designs, incorporating actual machine parts, such rivets and screw motifs and planished decorations into his striking jewels. He is notable for designing and making every piece himself, as he had become an accomplished artisan - perhaps the only studio goldsmith of the Art Deco period.