Antique Demi-Parure with Enamel Plaques of the Sistine Madonna, c. 1870

In the 19th century, a demi-parure traditionally consisted of a brooch or pendant and a matching pair of earrings. As these were designed to match each other, the Victorian lady was elegantly adorned for many occasions. The present set surprises with its special design: it does not feature precious stones or gold work as showpieces, but enamel paintings based on one of the great works of art of the Renaissance, Raphael's Sistine Madonna. The Renaissance painting from 1512 was acquired by Augustus III of Saxony in 1754 as a highlight of his collections and has been in Dresden ever since. The Madonna with the Christ Child is the centerpiece of the demi-parure and was painted by hand on the large plaque that adorns the pendant. The angels that adorn the earrings are located at the bottom of the painting. Interestingly, however, the painting as a whole is far less familiar to many people today than the two putti figures, which appear millions of times on posters or postcards as a motif in their own right. Shortly after 1800, the German painter August von der Embde copied them individually, thus paving their way to fame. The fine enamel plaques are held by unusual frames made of gold-plated silver filigree. These fine handcrafts are ornamental and expansive, yet at the same time very light, making them comfortable to wear even on the ear. We were able to discover the beautiful demi-parure in its original antique case in London.

Estimate:$2,095.93

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