Lot 231
- 231
18 Karat Gold, Ruby, Diamond and Enamel Clip-Brooch, Paul Flato, Circa 1938
Estimate
12,000 - 18,000 USD
bidding is closed
Description
- Paul Flato
- gold, diamond, ruby, enamel
Designed as a hand forming the letter 'A' in sign language, accented by red enamel fingernails, the cuff set with three round rubies and two round diamonds, unsigned.
Condition
In good condition. Under close inspection the brooch exhibits some scratching and denting to the gold due to age, there are also some small spots of discoloration to the gold near the fingernails. The rubies are medium purplish red and eye-clean and the diamonds are approximately F-H color, VS clarity.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
In response to your inquiry, we are pleased to provide you with a general report of the condition of the property described above. Since we are not professional conservators or restorers, we urge you to consult with a restorer or conservator of your choice who will be better able to provide a detailed, professional report. Prospective buyers should inspect each lot to satisfy themselves as to condition and must understand that any statement made by Sotheby's is merely a subjective qualified opinion. Illustrations in the catalogue may not be actual size. Prospective purchasers are reminded that, unless the catalogue description specifically states that a stone is natural, we have assumed that some form of treatment may have been used and that such treatment may not be permanent. Our presale estimates reflect this assumption.
NOTWITHSTANDING THIS REPORT OR ANY DISCUSSIONS CONCERNING CONDITION OF A LOT, ALL LOTS ARE OFFERED AND SOLD "AS IS" IN ACCORDANCE WITH THE CONDITIONS OF SALE PRINTED IN THE CATALOGUE.
Catalogue Note
A clip-brooch of similar design is illustrated in Paul Flato: Jeweler to the Stars by Elizabeth Irvine Bray, page 71.
Paul Flato's 'Deaf and Dumb' collection of clip-brooches was created while the designer was based in New York City during the 1930s. The whimsical clips featuring manicured fingernails and jeweled cuffs are a reflection of Flato's personal struggle with the deterioration of his own sense of hearing. Forming the letters of the sign language alphabet, these clip-brooches offered clients an amusing alternative to wearing traditionally mongrammed pieces. Although Flato's fascination with language can also be seen in his 'say-it-in-jewels' pieces, the designer's stylish and playful designs speak loudly for themselves.
Paul Flato's 'Deaf and Dumb' collection of clip-brooches was created while the designer was based in New York City during the 1930s. The whimsical clips featuring manicured fingernails and jeweled cuffs are a reflection of Flato's personal struggle with the deterioration of his own sense of hearing. Forming the letters of the sign language alphabet, these clip-brooches offered clients an amusing alternative to wearing traditionally mongrammed pieces. Although Flato's fascination with language can also be seen in his 'say-it-in-jewels' pieces, the designer's stylish and playful designs speak loudly for themselves.