AN EXQUISITE BELLE EPOQUE DIAMOND, GREY AND WHITE PEARL DEVANT-DE CORSAGE

Lots 284 and 287 are splendid examples of the Belle Epoque style. Lasting approximately from the beginning of this century until 1915, this genre, often referred to as the Edwardian Style, is characterised by its delicate and airy nature. It derived inspiration from the garlands and ribbon bows so prevalent in the jewels of the 18th Century. As is exemplified by these two jewels, pearls and diamonds were the preferred gemstones of the period. The "devant-de-corsage" with its festoons and bows typifies the "Garland Style" created by Louis Cartier. This jewellery mogul urged his designers to sketch from eighteenth century pattern books. Differing from the wristwatch which is of a slightly later date, it is mounted in yellow gold to the backside and silver to the front, a remnant of antique jewellery.