Art Nouveau 18K Gold Diamond Goddess Daphne Mythological Brooch
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Directory: Estate Jewelry: Gold: Art Nouveau: Pre 1920: Item # 1499041
Directory: Estate Jewelry: Gold: Art Nouveau: Pre 1920: Item # 1499041
$1,395.00
An elegant 18K yellow gold brooch featuring an image of the water nymph Daphne, who was pursued by the sun god Apollo. His affections were not returned by Daphne and to save her from falling into his arms, Daphne’s father transformed her into a laurel tree. She was so impressed by the genuineness of his mourning, that the Daphne bowed her limbs and allowed Apollo to pluck laurel leaves which he fashioned in his own crown. Here, Daphne is shown wearing a bandeau of old European cut diamonds and with her head surrounded by arches of laurel. The wavy treatment of her flowing hair in the background is suggestive of her water origins. This medallion is almost certainly the work of sculptor Emile-Séraphin Vernier. Most jewels based on Vernier’s designs were made in France, but his designs were also licensed to American jewelers who created pieces in 14K gold. American examples such as this one typically have much heavier weight than their French counterparts. The back retains the original watch hook and pinstem with a replaced clasp. A bail for wear as a pendant could easily be added at the top. The back is also engraved “E.H.S. – S.B.H. 1925.” We believe the brooch is likely a about a decade older, probably around 1910 and that the engraving was when given as later gift. Tested and guaranteed 18K.
- Origin: America, 1910
- Condition: excellent, sharp detail, replaced clasp
- Dimensions: 31/32” diameter
- Approximate Total Diamond Weight: .08 ct
- Weight: 10.3 g
