Luxurious Finds | Jewels from Maurice 'Dick' Turpin's Collection

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The eclectic selection of jewellery and objects of vertu contained in the sale are a testament to Turpin’s discerning eye, with each luxurious piece displaying great craftsmanship and elegance.

Of particular note is a fantastic Victorian snake bracelet embellished with graduated cabochon turquoise and rose cut diamonds. Highly collectible, the body of the bracelet is composed of articulated links, each meticulously modelled as a coiled snake and it fastens from head to tail, modelling a serpent in the ouroboros position. Used in both sentimental and mourning jewellery, the ouroboros symbolises love, wisdom and the eternal cycle of life and regeneration. Estimated at £1,000-1,500, the bracelet also features a heart locket, often a repository for keepsakes of loved ones.

^{A Victorian gold and turquoise snake bracelet (£1,000-1,500)}

A second lot for animal lovers is a tiger brooch by Kutchinsky crafted in 18 carat gold and embellished with royal blue enamel, diamonds and emeralds.  In the form of a comical tiger, the brooch embodies the playful side of luxury and is dated 1967. It is one of the many animal-themed jewels signed by Kutchinsky which are highly sought after by collectors and designer jewellery enthusiasts alike. Reflecting the brand’s enduring appeal and timeless allure it carries an estimate of £1,500-2,000.

^{An 18ct gold, enamel and diamond novelty brooch, by Kutchinsky (£1,500-2,000)}

Another highlight displaying exquisite craftsmanship is the pair of cufflinks by August Hollming, a Finn workmaster who worked for Fabergé during the late 19th and early 20th centuries.  These two-colour gold cuffinks feature blue guilloche enamel work, together with imperial design panels embellished with rubies and diamonds. The plates are bordered with a textured laurel wreath motif, a classic symbol of victory and honour, often associated with achievements and distinction. In the context of these cufflinks, it could suggest a celebration of the owner's accomplishments or status.  In addition to Fabergé’s signature in Cyrillic, the cufflinks bear Hollming’s maker’s mark.  They are estimated to fetch £1,000-1,500.

^{A pair of two-colour gold cufflinks by Fabergé, c.1880-1913 (£1,000-1,500)}

Also from the collection is a striking diamond and sapphire bombé ring featuring a large and lustrous sapphire surrounded by a cluster of vari-cut brilliant diamonds; the total diamond weight is approximately 4.50 to 5.00ct.  The style dates back to the Edwardian period and became increasingly popular during the Art Deco era, though it was not until the 1950s and 1960s that bombé rings reached their peak, with designers incorporating bold and innovative designs that captured the spirit of an era. They quickly became symbols of modernity and sophistication, favoured by fashion icons and celebrities.  This impressive ring is estimated at £3,000-4,000.

^{A mid 20th century sapphire and diamond bombé ring (£3,000-4,000)}

In addition to exceptional pieces of jewellery, the collection features a fascinating array of fine antique snuff boxes and vinaigrettes including gold mounted and silver gilt examples. We are delighted to have four Victorian Scottish hardstone vinaigrettes in the sale with a favourite having a barrel-shaped body adorned with meticulously cut agate and jasper stones, showcasing a variety of earthy hues and combining utility with beauty.  The lid is adorned with a faceted citrine, the gold mounts are engraved with scrollwork and the pierce grill is etched with stylised foliate motifs.  Carrying an estimate of £800-1,200 its intricate engraving is a representation of Victorian craftsmanship and the stones of its Scottish heritage.

^{A Scottish Victorian gold mounted agate vinaigrette, c.1850 (£800-1,200)}

Fine Jewellery and Watches

Tuesday 21 May | 10am

jewellery@sworder.co.uk | 01279 817778

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