Cartier Paris 1950 Rare Elephant Brooch In Textured 18Kt Yellow Gold With One Ruby

An elephant brooch designed by Cartier.

Beautiful rare jewelry piece, created in Paris France by the house of Cartier during the postwar period, circa 1950. This pin brooch has been crafted in the shape of an African elephant in solid yellow gold of 18 karats with highly textured finish. Fitted at the reverse with a hinged double pin bars and a trombone lock for security. This piece was part of the very popular and iconic collection of the Cartier Maison Ménagerie, originally created in the 1930's.

Gemstones: Mounted in a bezel with one round cabochon cut of a natural Burmese red ruby of .05 carats.

Weight: 11.52 Grams, (7.37 Dwt).

Measurements: 46 mm by 35 mm (1.81 x 1.38 Inches).

Hallmarks: Stamped with French marks; the eagle's head for the assay and warranty of the 18kt gold, the head of Minerva for exportation, the maker's maitre cartouche, the serial numbers and signed in full, "CARTIER 18KTS MADE IN FRANCE 21411".

Literature: cf. Coleno, Nader, Amazing Cartier: Jewelry design since 1937, Flammarion, SA, Paris 2009, pp-38-45 for similar examples of this series.

Note: We track down another similar one but, with blue sapphire.

Collateral: It is accompanied by the designer's presentation jewelry box.

Condition: The overall condition of this piece is excellent. Beside the little normal wear, there is no damage to the gold. The ruby is secured in the settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.

INVENTORY REF: P100322SENE.2764