HOLBEINESQUE 1860 Russell Renaissance Revival Pendant 19Kt Gold Pearls & Fire Opal
Holbeinesque enameled pendant with natural pearls and fire-opal.
This is a fabulous Victorian Holbeinesque pendant attributed to Russell and created in England back in 1860. The rare and important pendant has been crafted in solid yellow gold of 19 karats and is embellished on both sides, with applications of green, blue and red glass enamel floral motifs. The piece is centered by a gorgeous precious fire opal, which is surrounded by squared stations mounted with six natural white pearls and suspended with one pear shaped dangling white pearl. The top of the pendant has a pretty surmount and bale ring (loop) decorated to match the rest of the locket, in the same enamel work.
Holbeinesque jewelry
This is a term refer “in the manner of Holbein” and is used to describe Victorian jewelry that was made in the style of the Renaissance, particularly inspired by the Northern Renaissance and the paintings of Hans Holbein. Holbein himself produced sketches of the jewelry worn at the Tudor court, and the sketches were used as reference points by Victorian jewelry designers and craftsmen. The first jewelry made that was truly “Holbienesque” was the Devonshire Parure, a seven piece set that included 88 fine gems; it was made around 1856. Jewelry made in the Renaissance Revival style features a centered gemstone with bright gold work, intricate enamel, and delicate dangles, usually pearls. Intricate and ornate, this pendant exemplifies the Victorian Renaissance revival style.
Design for a pendant in the form of a monogram RE, set with various stones and three suspended pearls, one of nine designs for pendant jewels, from the 'Jewellery Book' Pen and black ink, with watercolour, Hans Holbein the younger. © The Trustees of the British Museum.
Country: England
Period: Holbeinesque, 1860.
Fire opal: Mount in the center, with 1 cushion faceted cut (17 x 13.5 x 8 mm) of a natural vivid reddish fire-opal of about 16.85 carats, by formula.
Pearls: Mounted in flush and bezels, with 6 semi round natural white pearls of 4mm and 1 dangle drop white pearl of 5 x 6mm.
Birthstone: Fire opal for the month of October.
Weight: 18.95 Grams, (12.15 Dwt).
Measurements: 67 mm by 31 mm (2.64 x 1.22 Inches).
Hallmarks: Unmarked as usual and electronically tested for 19kt gold, .790/.999 Au.
Literature: Yvonne Hackenbroch. Renaissance jewellery. Published by London : Sotheby-Park Bernet in association with the Metropolitan Museum, New York, 1979. For similar examples illustrated.
Collateral: This pendant is accompanied by a presentation jewelry box.
Condition: The overall condition of this Holbeinesque Russell pendant is excellent. Besides the little normal wear, there is no damage to the gold. The 8 gemstones are secured in their settings. This piece has been carefully inspected to guarantee the condition and authenticity.
INVENTORY REF: P121724ETNM/.4555
