Re: For Arthur and Lorenzo and all who are interested in French jewels Archived Message
Posted by Arthur on October 27, 2014, 4:37 am, in reply to "For Arthur and Lorenzo and all who are interested in French jewels"
Hello Beth1, thank you very much for this discovery! I admit I am not a great fan of this jewel, but the snake was a frequent motif in 19th century jewellery, symbolizing eternity and caution - therefore, it was also a fitting symbol for eternal love. I have found no mention of a similar necklace in Bernard Morel's book about the French Crown Jewels (either in the chapter dedicated to the Emeror's gift to his wife, or in the chapter listing the private jewels sold at auction by the exiled ex-Empress in 1872). The caption mentioned in the lot notes ("Napoleon III Eugenia de Montijo, Paris, XV-XI-MDCCCLII") confirms the imperial origin of this jewel. But this jewel was never part of the Crown Jewels, of course (the Crown Jewels were State's property, and not a private belonging of the sovereign or of his wife). Interestingly, the date inscribed within the bracelet (15th November 1852) is earlier than the official engagement of Napoleon III and Eugenia de Montijo, which took place only on 22nd January 1853. So it was probably a gift presented by Napoleon III when he was still courting the young and beautiful Spanish aristocrat... Thanks again! --Previous Message-- : Hello All, : : I found this item which I think may be of : some interest - unless you all have this : item. : : http://www.christies.com/lotfinder/lot/an-enamel-diamond-and-ruby-snake-bracelet-1603282-details.aspx?pos=7&intObjectID=1603282&sid=&page=8 : : Lorenzo, I apologise if you already have : this in your website. I have not yet : finished exploring it. :
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