GEORGES BISSINGER Cameo Necklace in Yellow Gold and Diamonds

Sautoir in 18k (750/1000) yellow gold composed of two chains linked by openwork motifs and a large medallion centred on a habillé cameo in three-layer agate depicting a woman of the Renaissance nobility, perhaps Elizabeth I or a similar 16th-century figure. The cameo is enhanced by a surround of very small rose-cut diamonds and encircled by larger old European cut diamonds, for a total weight of approximately 2.5 to 3 carats. The cameo is signed on the back by Georges Bissinger and marked 1901. Despite the 1901 date on the back, we date this cameo to around 1870. Owl hallmark for 18k gold.

Georges Bissinger is probably the most important French gem engraver of the second half of the 20th century. He worked in the Neo-Renaissance style and produced cameos of exceptional quality. He often depicted illustrious historical figures, some of which are held in the most prestigious collections in the world, such as the V&A Museum in London. He notably worked for several major jewellers of the period, such as Boucheron, Carlo Jiuliano and John Brogden.

Necklace length: 65 cm

Pendant dimensions: 4.8 x 4 cm

Gross weight: 55.28 grams