A late 19th century diamond tiara, circa 1880

Of tapering chevron design, each scrolling foliate panel of leaves, buds and articulated drops set throughout with cushion-shaped, rose and old brilliant-cut diamonds, all supported by a curved channel set row of similarly cut stones, peaking to the front with diamond-set trefoils, articulated drops and a central claw-set cushion-shaped diamond, the tiara enhanced by a spray of black feathers, diamonds approximately 8.30 carats total, tortoiseshell hair comb fitting, height 7.0cm, fitted leather case by A. Auger, Place des Victoires, Paris. Estimate: £18,000 - 25,000  - Unsold.

Footnote: Alphonse Auger (1837-1904) began his career as a stone setter. The House of Auger was founded in 1862, and became the supplier for prominent Parisian jewellers such as Lemoine and Mellerio-Borgnis. Alphonse’s eldest son Georges Auger was born in 1864. Georges joined the firm in 1895, and took over the business in 1900. Aside from fine jewellery, the House of Auger was also well known for their swords of honour, important book bindings and sporting trophies.

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Bonhams. Fine Jewellery, 24 Apr 2008. New Bond Street