The Magical Art of Cartier

Geneva, Nov 19, 1996

LOT 404

Tutti Frutti Flower Vase Brooch London, 1929

CHF 90,000 - 110,000

USD 70,000 - 90,000

Sold: CHF 135,500

Designed from a large, carved sapphire vase, decorated with round and baguette-eut diamonds, carved emeralds, ruby and sapphire leaves, and diamond-studded ruby, emerald and sapphire beads, mounted in 18K yellow gold and platinum. Cartier Certificate of Authenticity N° 2404.


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Notes

"Tutti frutti" jewels reflect one of the most imaginative periods in the history of the House of Cartier, and demanded a mastery of the jeweler's art. Artistry in design and form were of paramount importance, as can be seen in this splendid example,. but in tutti-frutti jewelry it is rare to see such perfection in the gemstones themselves as can be seen here. One is struck not only by the balance and harmony in design, the exquisite detailing, and the sense of movement and depth, but by the unusual clarity and brilliance of the gemstones themselves, the purity and richness of their colours, even the meticulous care given to the carving and cutting. Other features that add to the rarity and desirability of this particular brooch are its unusually large size and the use of precious sapphire for the "vase" rather than the more common "semi-precious" material that was often used.