Arts and Crafts/ Art Nouveau c1900 rare silver, abalone, coral necklace, Ashbee

  
This necklace is an outstanding treasure from the c1900 era (even a few years earlier). It has been the subject of both research and restoration. It is a superbly hand crafted antique sharing many characteristics of some of the pieces designed and made by the Guild of Handicraft, especially the early work of Charles Robert Ashbee. Undoubtedly an important piece of jewellery history, it demonstrates many of the Arts and Crafts ideals of the era, alongside its rather Art Nouveau design, in its peacock like form. This is a visually unique and stunning piece of jewellery art. The central heart shaped form has an abalone set in an organic ovalish setting and the abalone is striking! Three large and typically hand worked leaves are set to either side of the abalone.

Two round and open backed coral cabs sit, in between leaves 1 and 2. Suspended from three points at the bottom of the main pendant are three hand twisted silver wire drops with a small coral bead at the end of each. I love the small silver balls which sit at either side of the small loops from where the drops are suspended. Typical of the finer Arts and Crafts pieces.

The festoon arrangement of the chains (all original) is wonderful enhancement of the whole necklace. The central coral roundel allows the chain to move around so it is not fixed at one point. The two top corals have a wide silver band and a criss cross effect of silver in their setting. At these points two chains are fixed on one side and the other side has one chain, which run up either side to the original barrel fastener.

This is a unique and statement necklace, which oozes the romance of the Art Nouveau era. It is truly a lovely thing. It was found in quite a sorry state, with one of the central leaves and stalks missing, as well as one of the coral roundels on the main part of the pendant. Having been restored by an excellent silversmith (at the prestigious Hatton Garden workshop) it breathes again as a complete work. Yes, you can see the additional leaf join, although I have to say the silversmith did an amazing job in the styling of the leaf and yes, you can see the new coral roundel but I think it is important, as with buildings, to see what you have added at a later date. It adds to the correct chronological history of the piece. Ready to wear as is with a fully functioning and strong original barrel clasp. No marks on the silver as you would fully expect, in line with its age and design. The drop from the central round cab of coral on the chain is approx 9.5cm and the width of the main pendant section is approx 5cm. The wearable length of the chain is approx 42cm (16.5 inches).

Many thanks and please do ask if you have any further questions. Please note the box is for display purposes only and the necklace will be securely boxed in another box for safe passage. The item "Arts and Crafts/ Art Nouveau c1900 rare silver, abalone, coral necklace, Ashbee" is in sale since Wednesday, May 5, 2021.

This item is in the category "Jewellery & Watches\Vintage & Antique Jewellery\Vintage Fine Jewellery\Art Nouveau (1895-1910)". The seller is "tml66" and is located in Durham. This item can be shipped worldwide.

• Sub-Type: Necklace
• Country/Region of Manufacture: United Kingdom
• Metal: Silver
• Designer: Guild of Handicraft
• Type: Necklace/ Choker
• Main Gemstone: No Stone