Falize Enamel Diamond Pearl Pendant with Persian Inspiration

An enamel, diamond and pearl pendant, Lucien Falize, French,…
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An enamel, diamond and pearl pendant, Lucien Falize, French, last quarter of the 19th century, of Persian inspiration, the slightly domed tapered motif applied with translucent red 'Cabochonne' enamel, overlaid with a rose-cut diamond flowering motif, within a border of florette and beaded decoration, suspending a pearl pendant drop, the reverse with glazed compartment with a turquoise-blue enamel ground with raised gold beads, mounted in silver and gold, to a decorative gold chain necklace designed as a series of red and white enamel batons alternating with seed pearls, pendant length approximately 88 mm, necklace length approximately 423 mm, unsigned, accompanied by a fitted case. Falize was founded in1838 and continued for three generations as one of the most renowned jewellery houses in 19th century Paris boasting clientele from the Romanovs to the Bonapartes. Lucien, son of the original founder goldsmith and jeweller Alexis Falize, moved the business to Rue d'Antin in Paris in 1889. Lucien, like his father, was celebrated for his interest in jewellery as an Art form and for his exquisite fine enamel work rather than a focus on jewellery as a collection of precious stones. The focus on enamelling and asymmetry in design on display in the present lot are indicative of the increasing interest and focus in naturalism which was to define the Art Nouveau movement that would follow.

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  • Art Nouveau Period - The Art Nouveau period was a cultural movement that emerged in the late 19th century, and was characterized by its emphasis on natural forms, flowing lines, and a decorative, ornamental style. Art Nouveau was a reaction against the ornate and heavily stylized designs of the previous era, and sought to create a new, more organic aesthetic.

    Art Nouveau was characterized by its use of sinuous, curving lines, as well as a focus on natural elements such as flowers, vines, and other organic shapes. Art Nouveau designers sought to create a total work of art, in which every element of a building or object was designed to be harmonious with the overall design.

    Some of the most iconic examples of Art Nouveau design include the Paris Metro entrances designed by Hector Guimard, the works of the artist Alphonse Mucha, and the architecture of Victor Horta in Brussels.

    The Art Nouveau period was at its peak between 1890 and 1910, but began to decline in popularity by the start of World War I. However, Art Nouveau remains an important influence on design and art to this day, and continues to be celebrated for its emphasis on natural forms and decorative style.
  • Rose Cut - A flat based cut for a preious stone, leaving the surface covered with triangular facets, usually 24 in total.

    It was introduced in the 15th century and popular during the 16th and 17th centuries.

    The rose cut was the most popular form of diamond cut until the discovery of the brilliant cut at the end of the 17th century, after which its use declined.

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