GOLD AND MICROMOSAIC NECKLACE

Featuring twelve micromosaic landscapes depicting various Roman archaeological sites set in a blue glass ground mixed on the reverse side with goldstone glass, length 15½ inches; first quarter of the 19th century.

In very good condition given the age of this piece, the mounting with general light surface scratches. Mounting tests as 18 karat gold or greater. The micromosaics in very good condition; the micromosaic scenes depicting (from male to female end of the clasp): the Temple of Bacchus (today the Church of Santa Costanza), the Temple of Minerva Medica, the Ponte Mammolo, the Cascades of Tivoli, the Temple of Jupiter Tonans, the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli, the Ponte Salario, the Tomb of Caecilia Metella, the Temple of della Tosse, the Pyramid of Caius Cestius. The micromosaic is made up of glass tesserae, within glass surrounds. The blue glass in good condition, medium blue with some mottling and areas of metallic flecks of sunstone glass. Clasp closes securely.
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.

For a necklace of similar design see Micromosaics: Private Collections by Jeanette Hanisee Gabriel, page 211, figure 169; special thanks to Jeanette Hanisee Gabriel for helping to identify the monuments (see condition report).