CARTIER By Lisa Sotilis 1969 Jacqueline Kennedy Belt-Necklace In 18Kt Gold Vermeil
A necklace-belt designed by Lisa Sotilis for Cartier.
This is the iconic Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis necklace-belt designed by Lisa Sotilis for the jewelry house of Cartier, back in 1969-1970. The massive convertible necklace-belt was produced in very limited multiples, and designed to be easily worn as a belt or necklace. The fashion icon Jacqueline Kennedy Onassis owned an example around 1970. This was crafted with modernist patterns in solid sterling with 18 karats yellow gold vermeil, meaning it is made of pure silver with a layer of solid gold applied on the surface. The twenty irregularly-shaped, textured disks are separated by elongated nugget-style beads, but the back is completely smooth, ensuring a comfortable surface next to the skin. Fitted with a concealed security hook.
History
This piece it belongs to the period of 1968 and 1970. In 1969, Michael Thomas became president of the New York City branch and was instrumental in hiring young designers who modernized the company’s lines such Cesar, Aldo Cipullo, Jean Dinh Van, Roger Lucas, Jean Mahie, and Lisa Sotilis. On October 03,1969, Cartier launched a collection of about 200 jewelry pieces entitled, Astrological, Underwater and Geometric, all create by these young artists designers, all designed for Cartier and examples of their work were included in the exhibition. This unique piece could be part of the pieces exhibited in that event in the 1970.
Lisa Sotilis
She hails from an aristocratic family with deep roots in Greek history. Sotilis studied art at the Academy of Fine Arts of Brera in Milan, Italy. At 16, she held her first solo exhibition at the Gian Ferrari Gallery in Milan, gaining early recognition from prominent art critics and artists. Her international debut came at the Berlin Museum, where she was introduced by Professor Jannasch. This led to an exclusive contract with the famed art dealer Alexander Iolas. Throughout her career, Sotilis created unique jewelry pieces collected by notable figures, including royalty and celebrities, such; Empress Farah Pahlavi, Salvador Dalí, and Andy Warhol. She also designed exclusive pieces for Cartier like this iconic necklace-belt in the 1970s.
Country: France & EEUU.
Period: Modernist, 1969-1970.
Designer: Lisa Sotilis for Cartier.
Weight: 421.5 Grams, (270.25 Dwt).
Length: 32 Inches, (81.28 Cm).
Measurements: The central dangling section is 134 mm by 52 mm (5.25 x 2.05 Inches).
Hallmarks: Stamped with the maker's mark, the mark for the assay and warranty of the silver and signed in full as follows, "CARTIER STERLING".
Collateral: This necklace-belt by Cartier is accompanied by the designer's original presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this Cartier necklace-belt is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the silver-gold vermeil. All parts are secured in the settings. This piece was carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: R062225TENM/12.49
