Full details of each lot are displayed, except the lot number, estimate and price. You must be a subscriber to view lot numbers, estimates and prices.
An attractive diamond tiara, circa 1890 designed as an expertly…
Lot No.
***
Description:
An attractive diamond tiara, circa 1890 designed as an expertly graduated knife wire fringe of old European and rose-cut diamonds, the largest weighing approximately 1.15 carats, issuing similarly-set foliate terminals, converting to a necklace, three small diamonds deficient, estimated total diamond weight 25.85 carats, mounted in silver and gold, necklace length 39 cm, tiara frame length 24.50 cm. Since ancient times, there has always been a desire for head adornments; from humble materials such as flowers and leaves creating a wreath, to precious metals and magnificent gems that graced the Coronation of Kings and queens. According to Pliny the elder in 'The natural History' (AD 77), Dionysus, the God of wine, was the first to invent the diadem: the emblem of royalty. Ancient civilizations often treated the diadem as a symbol of rank and honour with ceremonial wreaths given to the winners in competition. The oldest jewellery design study in Chaumet's archives, famed as the official jeweller to Napoleon I and Empress Josephine, is an 18th century tiara in the style of French Neoclassicism, celebrating the flora and fauna of the four seasons. Over time the tiara gradually weaved a strong association with the symbol of romance. An 18th century painting by Jean-Baptiste Greuze depicts a Roman maiden kneeled under cupid, the God of desire and affection. In return, she receives a floral diadem that symbolizes the crowning of love.
Estimate:
***
Price:
***
Category:
Jewellery: Zother