Hattie Carnegie Devil with Jeweled Harp

Large and rare Kenneth Jay Lane Jeweled Shell Brooch from the 1960's in the Verdura style. Although unsigned, he was known for making these prototype pieces before later casting the...

Charming Lovely 14K Art Nouveau Mermaid Clip from the early 1900's. A small scarf or lingerie clip used to secure fabrics together with unusual hig...

18k bicolour gold brooch set with old mine cut and rose cut diamonds total approx. 3.50 ct - G/H - SI/P - 6.1 cm x 1.4 cm detailed description The brooch is 5.4 cm wide and 2.5 cm ...

A Rare Alexis Falize Antique Gold and Cloisonné Enamel Locket, Circa 1867 This exquisite oval-shaped locket, crafted circa 1869, epitomizes the fusion of French artistry and Japanese aesthetic that characterized Alexis Falize's work during the late 19th century. The obverse features a meticulously rendered cloisonné enamel scene of a bird perched gracefully on a branch, while the reverse presents a serene landscape, showcasing Falize's mastery of the cloisonné technique and his deep appreciation for Japanese motifs.​ The locket is housed in its original Japanese silk box, reflecting the authenticity and preservation of this remarkable piece. Falize, a distinguished Parisian jeweler (1811–1898), was profoundly influenced by Japanese and Chinese art, integrating Oriental motifs and palettes into his creations. This fascination was part of the broader Japonisme movement that swept through Europe following Japan's opening to Western trade in 1854, introducing Japanese decorative arts to a captivated Western audience.​ Employing the cloisonné enamel technique—a method prevalent in traditional Japanese and Chinese metalwork—Falize delineated intricate designs using fine metal wires to create compartments (cloisons), which were then filled with vibrant enamels. This locket exemplifies such craftsmanship, with its vivid colors and precise detailing. Notably, Falize collaborated with esteemed enameller Antoine Tard, renowned for his Oriental-style cloisonné enamels. Tard's exceptional skill earned him accolades, including a gold collaborator’s medal at the 1867 Exposition Universelle in Paris. Their partnership produced some of the most celebrated cloisonné jewels of the era.​ Comparable works by Falize are held in prestigious institutions worldwide. The British Museum houses a gold locket adorned with cloisonné enamel by Falize, highlighting the significance of his work in their collection. The Metropolitan Museum of Art features a reversible brooch attributed to Falize, further exemplifying his expertise in cloisonné enamel. Additionally, the Cleveland Museum of Art acquired a similar cloisonné locket marked by Falize, underscoring the widespread recognition of his craftsmanship. The Victoria and Albert Museum and the Schmuckmuseum in Pforzheim also include Falize's cloisonné enamelled lockets in their collections, attesting to the enduring legacy of his work. ​ In the realm of private collections, Wartski London has featured rare cloisonné...