An early 20th century diamond set bracelet, circa 1920, the ...

Hammer

£28,000

An early 20th century diamond set bracelet, circa 1920, the seven openwork square panels pave set with mixed cut diamonds, with curved double row diamond set spacers, the hinge hidden as a seventh curved spacer, all set in white metal and open to the reverse, 16.5cm long, 43gms, unmarked, total diamond weight estimated 20ct

Provenance: Princess Irena Obolensky (1917-1996) thence by descent, purchased by the current owner at Christie's 2005 Important Jewellery Auction, lot 205

Accompanied with a facsimile copy of a photograph of Princess Irena Obolensky by Cecil Beaton.

N.B: The composition and workmanship evident in this bracelet is comparable with the jewellery being created by Cartier during the inter war period.

There is a distinct Persian influence to this exquisite diamond bracelet with strong geometric and buckle-link motifs, which are repeated to form the subtle clasp. These decorative motifs were borrowed from across Mughal, Persian and Chinese decorative arts, and formed a key element of Cartier’s style vocabulary in the Art Deco era.

Please see 'Jewellery by Cartier' Christies auction catalogue from Thursday 21st May 1992, pages 139 and 145, for pieces including similar design motifs to those used, in this bracelet.

More Information

Please note, the metal is untested.
All diamonds are present, well matched in coloured and appear bright and lively.
There may be a later replacement of the middle diamond of the trio of diamonds above the clasp - as this is where reduced in the setting.
There are inclusions present to some of the diamonds, this is seen with x10 loupe.
The diamonds are all clean to the naked eye.
Clasp in good working condition.
There is good articulation to the whole of the bracelet.
There are small 'nicks' to the bar where the clasp fastens on to, commensurate with use. However this does not appear to obstruct the functionality of the clasp.
Minor thinning seen to the metal at the reverse of some of the curved spacers.
General minor surface scuffs and blemishes seen throughout the metal, commensurate with wear.