18 karat gold, silver, colored stone and diamond 'elephant' pendant-necklace, René Boivin, France. Photo courtesy Sotheby's

The fanciful elephant topped by a cabochon star sapphire measuring approximately 14.10 by 10.85 mm, accented by pear-shaped sapphires and emeralds, further set with round and square-cut rubies, the crown adorned with a cabochon emerald and the eyes set with two cabochon sapphires, set throughout with round diamonds weighing approximately 2.05 carats, suspended by a fancy-link chain, gross weight of chain approximately 77 dwts, chain length 28¾ inches, the pendant with French assay and workshop marks, the chain with French assay and maker's marks; circa 1940.With signed pouch. Estimate 20,000 — 30,000 USD

THE COLLECTION OF ALEX & ELISABETH LEWYT

For an elephant pendant of almost identical design see René Boivin: Jeweller, by Françoise Cailles, page 356.

For sketches of similar elephant brooches see The Jeweled Menagerie: The World of Animals in Gems, by Suzanne Tennenbaum and Janet Zapata, page 190.

Sotheby's. Important Jewels. New York | 24 Sep 2013 - http://www.sothebys.com