22nd May, 2021 9:30 GMT/BST

Jewellery, Watches & Silver

 
  Lot 2033
 

2033

A Late 19th Century Opal Matrix Stickpin, probably by Wilhelm Schmidt, depicting the head of a...

A Late 19th Century Opal Matrix Stickpin, probably by Wilhelm Schmidt, depicting the head of a warrior, the helmet of peacock feather design and his bearded face of carved opal matrix, length 8.0cm, cased see illustration Wilhelm Schmidt (1845-1938) was born in Idar Oberstein, the European centre of the mineral, gemstone and lapidary trades. At the age of 15 he was sent to Paris as an apprentice and was taken under the wing of cameo cutter Arsène who trained him in the neo-classical tradition. In the late 1860's Schmidt moved to London where he established a gem-carving business in Hatton Garden with his brother supplying intaglios and cameos for many important jewellers including John Brogden, Guiliano, Child & Child and Tiffany & Co. Schmidt never signed his work and pieces he produced for shops were never credited to him.

Sold for £1,700
Estimated at £1,700 - £2,000


 

. The stickpin is in good condition however there are fractures running through the opal. It bears no hallmark nor stamp but in our opinion would test as gold. Gross weight 7.3 grams. CR made 01.02.21

 


We are happy to provide Condition Reports to prospective buyers, but would welcome your request as soon as possible, preferably at least 48 hours before the Day of Sale. We cannot guarantee a reply to any requests made within 48 hours of the start of the auction. The absence of a Condition Report from a lot does not mean that the lot is in perfect condition. A Condition Report is an honest expression of our opinion, not a statement of fact and is provided as a service to the seller. All lots are available on public view ahead of an auction and we encourage prospective buyers to inspect an item in person where possible. Our Condition Reports are not prepared by professional conservators, restorers, or engineers, and are prepared with the naked eye unless otherwise stated.

Regarding Pictures, Prints and Works on Paper, works are not examined out of the frame, unless specifically stated. Tennants Auctioneers do not cover damage to gilded wood or plaster picture frames, or to picture frame glass whilst the item is in our possession.

We accept no liability for the opinions expressed in any Condition Report.

Auction: Jewellery, Watches & Silver, 22nd May, 2021

Jewellery, Watches & Silver

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