Enamel and gem-set brooch, Verdura.
Enamel and gem-set brooch, Verdura. photo Sotheby's
Designed as a swan decorated with white and black enamel, holding a pearl in its beak, the eye set with a cabochon ruby, the wings highlighted with brilliant- and single-cut diamonds, signed Verdura. Estimate 8,000—10,000 GBP. Lot Sold 17,500 GBP
LITERATURE AND REFERENCES: Patricia Corbett, Verdura: The Life and Work of a Master Jeweller, London, 2008, pages 140-143.
NOTE: Verdura used the image of swans in many jewels. He had a following of many high profile clients including Anita Loos, Diana Vreeland and Mrs Paul Mellon all mid 20th Century families of note in America. In Greek mythology, the Swan is sometimes attribute of Apollo and of the Muses, Erato and Clio, Zeus seduced Leda in the form of a swan.
Sotheby's. Jewels.17 Mar 11.London www.sothebys.com