Platinum and diamond bracelet, Lacloche Frères, France. Photo Sotheby's
The articulated strap centered by a row of 11 old European-cut diamonds weighing approximately 13.80 carats, accented by numerous smaller old European and single-cut diamonds weighing approximately 14.20 carats, further set with half-moon-shaped, square-cut and baguette diamonds weighing approximately 19.20 carats, length 7¼ inches, signed Lacloche F, numbered 75490, with French assay and workshop marks; circa 1930. Estimation: 125,000 - 175,000 USD
One of the great jewelers of the Art Deco period, Lacloche Frères was founded in Madrid in 1875 by brothers Fernand, Jules, Léopold and Jacques. As their reputation grew to rival that of the more established French firms, they opened locations at 15 rue de la Paix in Paris followed by New Bond Street in London where their production included not only fine jewels but also exquisite objets de vertu and clocks. Lacloche’s relevance in the world of design was sealed by their participation in the legendary Exposition Internationale des Art Décoratifs in 1925 and the Exposition des Arts de la Bijouterie in 1929. The present bracelet, balancing the contemporary precepts of geometricism with the softening effect of old European-cut diamonds, is an impressive expression of Lacloche’s masterful artistry and craftsmanship.
Sotheby's. Magnificent Jewels. New York | 17 avr. 2013 - www.sotheby's.com